Old School Spaghetti with Just Ground Beef (No Sausage) is a classic dish that focuses on simplicity and comfort. This recipe typically involves cooking spaghetti pasta and then mixing it with a sauce made primarily from ground beef, along with basic ingredients like garlic, onion, and canned tomatoes.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how to make it:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare the Meat: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in the same skillet until softened.
- Create the Sauce: Add canned crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and any herbs you like (such as basil or oregano) to the beef and onion mixture. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Combine: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
This dish is hearty and satisfying, perfect for a comforting meal!
Here are some variations to the classic Old School Spaghetti with Just Ground Beef:
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ground beef while cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce for a spicy version.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end for a creamy texture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil added just before serving for a fresh taste.
- Cheesy Baked Version: After mixing the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Italian Sausage Blend: While keeping the ground beef, mix in some Italian sausage for added flavor.
These variations can help you explore different flavors while still enjoying the classic dish!
You can definitely add other types of meat to the classic recipe! Here are some options:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: These leaner alternatives can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter dish.
- Pork: Ground pork can add a different flavor profile and richness to the sauce.
- Meatballs: You could make meatballs using a mix of ground beef and other meats like pork or turkey, then simmer them in the sauce.
- Bacon or Pancetta: Adding chopped bacon or pancetta can introduce a smoky flavor to the dish.
- Steak: Diced cooked steak can be mixed in for a heartier meal.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find what you like best!