Old School Spaghetti with Ground Beef

Ingredients:

– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz/170g) tomato paste
– 1 can (15 oz/425g) tomato sauce
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
– Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

2. **Add the Aromatics:**
– Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. **Simmer the Sauce:**
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Add the oregano, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
– Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.

4. **Cook the Spaghetti:**
– While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. **Combine and Serve:**
– Once the sauce has simmered, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
– Serve the spaghetti in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your old school spaghetti with just ground beef—no sausage needed!