Name: Classic Beef Pasta Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 1/2 cup beef broth or water; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity); Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

A rich and savory homemade beef pasta sauce, packed with tender ground beef, aromatic garlic, onions, and a blend of herbs that come together to create the perfect topping for your favorite pasta. This is the ideal sauce for those times when I crave a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup beef broth or water

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

I add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Next, I add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. I let it brown and cook through for about 5-7 minutes.

Once the beef is cooked, I stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth (or water).

I then add the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar (if I’m using it). I stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

After that, I reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, I add a little more broth or water to get my preferred consistency.

Finally, I season with salt and pepper to taste, and I’m ready to serve it over pasta.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy: I sometimes add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or even a diced chili pepper if I’m in the mood for more heat.

Vegetarian: I can swap the ground beef for mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, plant-based alternative.

Extra Rich: For a creamier version, I stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk towards the end of cooking to give the sauce a rich texture.

Herb Variation: I like experimenting with different herbs. Sometimes I swap out basil for thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping. I also love making a big batch and freezing portions for later use. When reheating, I’ll warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick. I stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

How can I make this beef pasta sauce spicier?

I add extra red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to give the sauce a spicy kick. If I want it more intense, I use hotter varieties of peppers, such as jalapeños or serranos.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute if I’m looking for a leaner version of this sauce. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

If the sauce is too thin, I let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken naturally. Alternatively, I can add a bit of tomato paste to help thicken it up faster.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Absolutely! I make a double batch and freeze leftovers for later. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to use it, I simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

This sauce pairs perfectly with any type of pasta, but I particularly love it with spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. The sauce clings to the pasta and adds amazing flavor.

Conclusion

This classic beef pasta sauce is a staple in my kitchen, and I love making it for family dinners or a cozy meal at home. It’s full of rich, savory flavors that I can customize to suit my tastes. Whether I’m enjoying it with my favorite pasta or using it for a different dish, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to recipes too.

Recipe:

Classic Beef Pasta Sauce

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A rich and savory homemade beef pasta sauce, packed with tender ground beef, aromatic garlic, onions, and a blend of herbs that come together to create the perfect topping for your favorite pasta.