How to Make Spaghetti with Ground Beef

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Old School Spaghetti with Ground Beef – Classic Family Dinner Recipe

Looking for a hearty and comforting spaghetti with ground beef recipe that tastes just like grandma used to make? This old school spaghetti dinner is rich, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a big family. With a slow-simmered homemade spaghetti meat sauce, this dish brings classic Italian-American comfort straight to your table.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

  • 1 lb (450 g) dried spaghetti – classic long pasta, not too thin.
  • 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef – use 80/20 for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or a mix of butter and oil).
  • 1 large onion, finely diced – adds natural sweetness.
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced – essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced – optional but traditional.
  • 2 cans (28 oz / 800 g each) crushed tomatoes – the base of the sauce.
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce – smooth and rich.
  • 1 small can (6 oz / 170 g) tomato paste – thickens and deepens the flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons sugar – balances tomato acidity.
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme).
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional).
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional smoky touch).
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste).
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground if possible).
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat).
  • 2 cups beef broth or water – keeps sauce rich and moist.
  • Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) – for topping.
  • Fresh basil or parsley – optional garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Pasta Water

  • Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil.
  • Keep it ready for later when you cook the spaghetti.

2. Brown the Beef

  • Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or deep pot.
  • Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon.
  • Cook until fully browned (8–10 minutes).
  • Drain excess fat but leave a little for flavor.

3. Sauté Vegetables

  • Push beef to the side of the pot.
  • Add onions, cook until soft (5 minutes).
  • Stir in garlic and bell pepper, sauté until fragrant (2–3 minutes).

4. Build the Sauce

  • Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
  • Stir in sugar, Italian seasoning, parsley, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • Pour in beef broth or water and mix well.

5. Simmer the Sauce (Old School Method)

  • Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for at least 45 minutes (up to 2 hours).
  • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • If sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or water.

6. Cook the Pasta

  • About 15 minutes before sauce is ready, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water.
  • Stir occasionally and cook until al dente.
  • Drain, but reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

7. Combine & Serve

  • Toss pasta with sauce (add pasta water if needed) or serve sauce on top.
  • Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
  • Pair with garlic bread and salad for a complete old-fashioned dinner.

Pro Tips for the Best Old School Spaghetti

  • Brown the meat well – it builds deep, savory flavor.
  • Don’t skip the sugar – it balances the acidity of tomatoes.
  • Low and slow simmering – brings out a rich, hearty taste.
  • Even better the next day – flavors develop overnight, making leftovers delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic spaghetti with ground beef is:

  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family gatherings.
  • Budget-friendly and easy to make in large batches.
  • A true comfort food recipe that never goes out of style.

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Enjoy.