spaghetti with minced meat (5 servings)

Spaghetti with Ground Meat - A Classic and Comforting Recipe

Get ready to enjoy a dish that brings joy to every meal: spaghetti with ground meat! This simple and delicious recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether it's a quick dinner during the week or a special meal on the weekend, spaghetti with ground meat is always a winning choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 5

Ingredients:

- 500 g ground meat (a mix of pork and beef for a rich flavor)
- 1 large onion (about 150 g), finely chopped
- 400 ml tomato sauce (or canned diced tomatoes)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or more if you prefer a stronger flavor)
- 400 g spaghetti
- Water for boiling the pasta

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and chopped onion. Stir constantly to brown evenly. Cooking the meat with the onion adds a deep and aromatic flavor to the dish. This process may take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Adding the sauce
Once the meat is well browned, add the tomato sauce. Make sure to mix the ingredients well. This is when the aroma begins to develop. Add salt, pepper, and oregano, adjusting the seasonings to taste. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Boiling the spaghetti
While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt, then the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain in a colander and rinse quickly with cold water to stop the cooking.

Step 4: Combining the sauce with the pasta
Once the meat sauce is ready, add the spaghetti directly to the skillet. Mix well to ensure each strand of pasta is coated with that delicious sauce. Keep everything on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to infuse into the pasta, giving it a fantastic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spaghetti with ground meat hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for added flavor. A fresh green salad alongside a slice of crusty bread will perfectly complement the meal.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

1. Variety of meat: Try experimenting with different types of ground meat. For example, turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version.
2. Richer sauce: If you want a creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of sour cream or mascarpone cheese before mixing in the pasta.
3. Spices: Depending on your preferences, you can also add other spices, such as garlic or chili pepper, for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the ground meat and contains complex carbohydrates from the pasta, providing energy. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole grain pasta?
Of course! Whole grain pasta is a healthy option, rich in fiber and nutrients.

How can I store leftovers?
You can store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a little oil.

What drinks pair well with this recipe?
A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs perfectly with spaghetti with ground meat. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, tomato juice or iced tea can be an excellent choice.

A Personal Note

This spaghetti with ground meat recipe reminds me of family evenings spent around the table, where everyone shared the joys of the day. It is a dish that brings not only food but also warmth and connection. I encourage you to gather your family and enjoy this meal together, turning it into a special moment.

Now that you have this detailed recipe, you are ready to experiment in the kitchen! Enjoy every step and don't forget to share the final result with your loved ones. Bon appétit!