🍝 Old School Spaghetti with Ground Beef

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried basil + oregano)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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🔥 Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef:
   In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
   Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add aromatics:
   Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
4. Make the sauce:
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
   Mix well, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer:
   Let it cook gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor!
6. Combine:
   Add cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce pot. Toss well to coat every strand.
7. Serve:
   Top with grated Parmesan and maybe a sprinkle of parsley. Serve hot with garlic bread 🍞

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💡 Optional Upgrades

• Add a splash of red wine while simmering for depth.
• Stir in a pat of butter before serving for a silky finish.
• Toss in a handful of mozzarella for a gooey texture.