Description
A rich, customizable spaghetti sauce using ground beef that offers balanced flavor for any occasion. Simmered to perfection with a 1:1 tomato sauce-to-paste ratio, this American staple is quick enough for weeknights yet refined enough for entertaining. Adapt it for vegetarians or add personal touches like herbs and spices.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (use 85% lean or substitute ½ lb lentils for vegetarian)
½ tsp Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade from oregano, thyme, rosemary)
1 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust or omit for low-sugar diets)
1 tsp olive oil
2 cups chopped onion
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 cup water
¼ cup fresh basil (optional)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions
Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Add seasoned ground beef and chopped onion, cooking 5-7 minutes until browned
Press meat against pan edge with a spatula to drain grease onto paper towels
Stir in 15 oz tomato sauce, 6 oz tomato paste, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Add 1 tbsp dried parsley, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Bring to a boil, add 1 cup water, then simmer 30 minutes for depth of flavor
Stir in ¼ cup fresh basil just before serving (optional)
Add 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or 1-2 tbsp milk if using (optional for tangy brightness or creaminess)
Notes
Use low-sodium tomato products for balanced salinity
Cool sauce completely before freezing to prevent moisture separation
Swap ground beef with ½ lb lentils for a vegetarian version
Add red pepper flakes or cheese shreds for extra flavor variations
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: LUNCH
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup sauce
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg