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| Meta Title | Easy Weeknight Spaghetti Recipe |
| Meta Description | My familyās favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with an easy meat sauce is ready in 45 minutes, and you can use your favorite ground meat. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | My familyās favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with an easy meat sauce is ready in 45 minutes, and you can use your favorite ground meat.
I love pasta for quick weeknight dinners, and this spaghetti tossed with my easy
homemade spaghetti sauce
fits the bill! You can use any ground meat for this spaghetti recipe. I love ground turkey, but ground beef, pork, and chicken are all excellent.
Of all the
pasta recipes
on Inspired Taste, my family makes this spaghetti the most. If you prefer meatballs over meat sauce, see our
spaghetti and meatballs
. I also love our delicious
baked spaghetti
and this quick
chicken alfredo
is also perfect is you feel like a creamy sauce instead.
Key Ingredients
Spaghetti:
I love spaghetti for this recipe, but you can use any pasta shape you love. To cook spaghetti, check the package directions.Ā The box should have an approximate cooking time listed. Set a timer 1 to 2 minutes less than the suggested cooking time, and check your spaghetti. I often find that pasta is perfectly al dente before the recommended cooking time.
Ground Meat:
Really any ground meat will work in this recipe. Ground turkey and chicken are usually a bit leaner, while ground beef and pork will have more fat. Use what you have and love. For a vegetable pasta sauce, see this
veggie spaghetti
.
Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
These make the base of our spaghetti sauce. I use canned crushed tomatoes to keep things easy, but you can use store-bought tomato sauce, marinara sauce, or my
homemade red pasta sauce
(both add more flavor, but in the very best way).
Onion, Garlic, and Spices:
These add flavor to our sauce. I keep things as simple as possible since this is an easy everyday kind of recipe. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. For a more intensely flavored sauce, see our
homemade bolognese
.
Find the full recipe with measurements below.
How to Make the Best Spaghetti
Tip 1: Make my quick meat sauce.
Itās easy to do. Brown your meat in a bit of oil, and then stir in onions until they soften. Then add lots of flavor with garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. To finish the sauce, add a bit of water (or broth) and crushed tomatoes. You only need to simmer the sauce for about 25 minutes, so about 15 minutes before it is ready, you can cook your spaghetti.
Tip 2: Cook your spaghetti in salted water.
This is my number 1 tip for the best spaghetti (or pasta for that matter). Pasta water should taste salty. Add one tablespoon of salt for every four quarts (16 cups) of water, which is perfect for cooking one pound of pasta.
Tip 3: Cook to al dente.
If you still have it, check your package instructions. If youāve tossed the package already, spaghetti takes 8 to 12 minutes. We recommend setting a timer for 8 minutes and then checking your spaghetti to see if it needs longer. Al dente means that your pasta has some texture left and isnāt mushy.
Tip 4: Donāt rinse your spaghetti.
Thereās no need to rinse spaghetti after cooking, especially if you plan to toss it with a sauce. Rinsing removes the starch, which helps the sauce cling to the noodles. My only caveat to this is when Iām making cold pasta dishes, like
pasta salad
or
macaroni salad
.
Serving Suggestions
When your spaghetti is ready, toss it with your delicious homemade meat sauce and serve it with some parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. A side of
roasted garlic bread
or this
classic garlic bread
is a good idea, too.
I also love adding a salad on the side.
caesar salad
is classic, but you can toss your favorite salad greens into a bowl and toss with one of our
homemade salad dressings
. I especially love our
simple balsamic vinaigrette
.
More Spaghetti Recipes
Baked Spaghetti
Veggie Spaghetti
Pasta Carbonara
Easy Weeknight Spaghetti
PREP
5 mins
COOK
40 mins
TOTAL
45 mins
This is our favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with a meat sauce made completely from scratch. You can use ground beef, turkey, pork, chicken, or lamb to make this simple spaghetti. Itās also great with bulk Italian sausage.
If you want to reduce the carbohydrates in your dish, swap half or all of the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Hereās our
recipe for zucchini noodles
, which includes a tutorial for turning zucchini into pasta. Hereās our tutorial for
how to cook spaghetti squash
.
6 Servings (5 cups of sauce)
Watch Us Make the Recipe
You Will Need
1 pound dried spaghetti noodles (450g)
1 pound lean ground meat like ground beef, ground turkey, or bulk Italian sausage (450g)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion (130g)
3 garlic cloves, minced, 1 tablespoon
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup water, broth, or dry red wine (236ml)
1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes
Salt and fresh ground black pepper
Handful of fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions
1
Brown the meat:
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat (we use a Dutch oven). Add the meat and cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into smaller crumbles as the meat cooks.
2
Build the sauce:
Add the onions and cook, stirring every once in a while, until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring continuously for about 1 minute.
3
Add liquid and tomatoes:
Pour in the water and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits of meat or onion stuck to the bottom of the pot. Stir in the tomatoes, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper.
4
Simmer:
Bring the sauce to a low simmer. Cook uncovered for 25 minutes. As it cooks, stir and taste the sauce a few times so you can adjust the seasoning accordingly (see notes for seasoning suggestions).
5
Cook spaghetti:
About 15 minutes before the spaghetti sauce finishes cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Then, cook the pasta according to the package directions, but check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. Drain.
6
To serve:
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the basil. Toss in the cooked pasta and leave for a minute so that it absorbs some of the sauce. Toss again, and then serve with grated parmesan cheese on top.
Adam and Joanne's Tips
Storing/Make-ahead:
Leftover spaghetti and meat sauce last in the fridge for 3 days. You can also make the meat sauce in advance and store it in your refrigerator for up to 3 days or in your freezer for about three months.
If the flavor of the sauce doesnāt pop, you probably need a bit more salt.Ā If the sauce still lacks flavor, consider adding a few dashes of fish sauce,
mushroom powder
, minced anchovies, or anchovy paste (both add a rich, savory flavor).
Adding a leftover rind of a parmesan wedge to the sauce while adding the tomatoes adds richness and extra flavor. It wonāt melt all the way, just remove whatās left before serving.
If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar.
The nutrition facts provided below are estimates.
Nutrition Per Serving
Serving Size
1/6 of the recipe
/
Calories
486
/
Total Fat
16.7g
/
Saturated Fat
4g
/
Cholesterol
58.1mg
/
Sodium
977.4mg
/
Carbohydrate
58.2g
/
Dietary Fiber
4.7g
/
Total Sugars
10.3g
/
Protein
27.3g
AUTHOR:
Joanne Gallagher
We are Adam and Joanne Gallagher, the creators of Inspired Taste. Established in 2009, Inspired Taste grew from aĀ childhood dreamĀ into one of the internetās most trusted recipe sites with hundreds of reliable recipes, step-by-step videos, and expert tips.
More About Us |
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# Easy Weeknight Spaghetti
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By: [Joanne Gallagher](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/author/joanne/) Updated: Jan 5, 2026
My familyās favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with an easy meat sauce is ready in 45 minutes, and you can use your favorite ground meat.

I love pasta for quick weeknight dinners, and this spaghetti tossed with my easy [homemade spaghetti sauce](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38815/homemade-spaghetti-meat-sauce/) fits the bill! You can use any ground meat for this spaghetti recipe. I love ground turkey, but ground beef, pork, and chicken are all excellent.
Of all the [pasta recipes](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/category/recipes/pasta-recipes/) on Inspired Taste, my family makes this spaghetti the most. If you prefer meatballs over meat sauce, see our [spaghetti and meatballs](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/67978/spaghetti-and-meatballs-recipe/). I also love our delicious [baked spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/17832/easy-baked-spaghetti-recipe-with-creamy-pesto/) and this quick [chicken alfredo](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/80471/chicken-alfredo-recipe/) is also perfect is you feel like a creamy sauce instead.
## Key Ingredients
- **Spaghetti:** I love spaghetti for this recipe, but you can use any pasta shape you love. To cook spaghetti, check the package directions. The box should have an approximate cooking time listed. Set a timer 1 to 2 minutes less than the suggested cooking time, and check your spaghetti. I often find that pasta is perfectly al dente before the recommended cooking time.
- **Ground Meat:** Really any ground meat will work in this recipe. Ground turkey and chicken are usually a bit leaner, while ground beef and pork will have more fat. Use what you have and love. For a vegetable pasta sauce, see this [veggie spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38662/veggie-spaghetti-recipe/).
- **Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:** These make the base of our spaghetti sauce. I use canned crushed tomatoes to keep things easy, but you can use store-bought tomato sauce, marinara sauce, or my [homemade red pasta sauce](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/53632/red-pasta-sauce/) (both add more flavor, but in the very best way).
- **Onion, Garlic, and Spices:** These add flavor to our sauce. I keep things as simple as possible since this is an easy everyday kind of recipe. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. For a more intensely flavored sauce, see our [homemade bolognese](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/54981/bolognese/).
*Find the full recipe with measurements below.*


## How to Make the Best Spaghetti
**Tip 1: Make my quick meat sauce.** Itās easy to do. Brown your meat in a bit of oil, and then stir in onions until they soften. Then add lots of flavor with garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. To finish the sauce, add a bit of water (or broth) and crushed tomatoes. You only need to simmer the sauce for about 25 minutes, so about 15 minutes before it is ready, you can cook your spaghetti.


**Tip 2: Cook your spaghetti in salted water.** This is my number 1 tip for the best spaghetti (or pasta for that matter). Pasta water should taste salty. Add one tablespoon of salt for every four quarts (16 cups) of water, which is perfect for cooking one pound of pasta.
**Tip 3: Cook to al dente.** If you still have it, check your package instructions. If youāve tossed the package already, spaghetti takes 8 to 12 minutes. We recommend setting a timer for 8 minutes and then checking your spaghetti to see if it needs longer. Al dente means that your pasta has some texture left and isnāt mushy.
**Tip 4: Donāt rinse your spaghetti.** Thereās no need to rinse spaghetti after cooking, especially if you plan to toss it with a sauce. Rinsing removes the starch, which helps the sauce cling to the noodles. My only caveat to this is when Iām making cold pasta dishes, like [pasta salad](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38019/easy-pasta-salad-recipe/) or [macaroni salad](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38147/creamy-macaroni-pasta-salad/).




## Serving Suggestions
When your spaghetti is ready, toss it with your delicious homemade meat sauce and serve it with some parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. A side of [roasted garlic bread](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/61748/roasted-garlic-bread/) or this [classic garlic bread](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38329/garlic-bread-recipe/) is a good idea, too.
I also love adding a salad on the side. [caesar salad](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/46663/caesar-salad/) is classic, but you can toss your favorite salad greens into a bowl and toss with one of our [homemade salad dressings](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/category/recipes/salad-dressing-recipes/). I especially love our [simple balsamic vinaigrette](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/22819/balsamic-vinaigrette-recipe/).
## More Spaghetti Recipes
- [Baked Spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/17832/easy-baked-spaghetti-recipe-with-creamy-pesto/)
- [Veggie Spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38662/veggie-spaghetti-recipe/)
- [Pasta Carbonara](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/11316/pasta-carbonara-recipe/)


## Easy Weeknight Spaghetti
[5\.0 (33 reviews)](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comments)
[78 comments](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comments)
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- PREP
5 mins
- COOK
40 mins
- TOTAL
45 mins
This is our favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with a meat sauce made completely from scratch. You can use ground beef, turkey, pork, chicken, or lamb to make this simple spaghetti. Itās also great with bulk Italian sausage.
If you want to reduce the carbohydrates in your dish, swap half or all of the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Hereās our [recipe for zucchini noodles](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/29992/garlic-zucchini-pasta-recipe/), which includes a tutorial for turning zucchini into pasta. Hereās our tutorial for [how to cook spaghetti squash](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/34185/how-to-cook-spaghetti-squash/).
6 Servings (5 cups of sauce)
## Watch Us Make the Recipe
## You Will Need
1 pound dried spaghetti noodles (450g)
1 pound lean ground meat like ground beef, ground turkey, or bulk Italian sausage (450g)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion (130g)
3 garlic cloves, minced, 1 tablespoon
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup water, broth, or dry red wine (236ml)
1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes
Salt and fresh ground black pepper
Handful of fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving
Parmesan cheese, for serving
## Directions
## Adam and Joanne's Tips
- **Storing/Make-ahead:** Leftover spaghetti and meat sauce last in the fridge for 3 days. You can also make the meat sauce in advance and store it in your refrigerator for up to 3 days or in your freezer for about three months.
- If the flavor of the sauce doesnāt pop, you probably need a bit more salt. If the sauce still lacks flavor, consider adding a few dashes of fish sauce, [mushroom powder](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/52603/mushroom-powder/), minced anchovies, or anchovy paste (both add a rich, savory flavor).
- Adding a leftover rind of a parmesan wedge to the sauce while adding the tomatoes adds richness and extra flavor. It wonāt melt all the way, just remove whatās left before serving.
- If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar.
- The nutrition facts provided below are estimates.
Nutrition Per Serving Serving Size 1/6 of the recipe / Calories 486 / Total Fat 16\.7g / Saturated Fat 4g / Cholesterol 58\.1mg / Sodium 977\.4mg / Carbohydrate 58\.2g / Dietary Fiber 4\.7g / Total Sugars 10\.3g / Protein 27\.3g
**AUTHOR:** Joanne Gallagher
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We are Adam and Joanne Gallagher, the creators of Inspired Taste. Established in 2009, Inspired Taste grew from a childhood dream into one of the internetās most trusted recipe sites with hundreds of reliable recipes, step-by-step videos, and expert tips.[More About Us](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/aboutus/)
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78 comments⦠[Leave a Review](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#commentform)
- Sujata Goetz February 21, 2026
This was great. Iām going to add this to my rotation. I added bell peppers and mushrooms. Yum
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-772340)
- Velma December 22, 2025
I forgot to give a rating.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-755947)
- Bryan August 5, 2025
This is a delicious meat sauce thatās surprising simple. Iām only a beginner cook and I found this easy to make. I was worried at first due to the amount of steps and ingredients that I would be overwhelmed while cooking it, but this was simple enough that I was able to handle it. I do agree with Joe that the amount of spaghetti should be reduced, though. Outside of that one little problem, this was a wonderful and easy weekday meal, and both my mom and I greatly enjoyed it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-732015)
- Jay May 28, 2025
Awesome recipe!!! Ty!!!! Added some sugar because I like a sweeter sauce\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-722035)
- Mariam May 27, 2025
Very good
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-721921)
- Shawn June 25, 2025
Hi, this looks delicious! Can I substitute Italian sausage links instead of the ground beef?
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-726350)
- Joanne Gallagher August 25, 2025
That would be amazing\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-734276)
- urijah May 22, 2025
its nice i used it to write a recipe for my mother
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-721002)
- Joe January 5, 2025
The meat sauce was excellent, however 1/2 lb of pasta would be enough. One lb left little of the sauce, as the pasta dominated the dish.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-691347)
- Carmen October 20, 2024
Fantastic great hit at party. Easy and delicious
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-669260)
- Andrea C July 9, 2024
I was surprised at how good this was, usually, I load my spaghetti sauce with all sorts of ingredients, this was very basic and delicious
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-640948)
- Kate May 18, 2024
This is so yum. Made it tonight and didnāt have any tinned tomatoes so just chopped up some cooking tomatoes. Added oyster sauce-just a dash, a dash of sesame oil, soy sauce and some spicy red sauce to boost the tomatoes. Used lots of olive oil and left out the Basil. Didnāt have and Oregano so substituted Thyme and Marjoram leaves instead. Even hubby liked it and heās not great for spaghetti.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-622748)
- Mary Cooper January 30, 2024
Havenāt made it yet. Spaghetti sauce
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-586701)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
I hope you enjoy it! If you have any questions while making it, just let me know.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591221)
- Charneil Stroebel December 15, 2023
I say experiment away do what you heart desires when it come to cooking. Taste it feel it and best of all make it your own.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-571080)
- Nomsa Shongwe March 29, 2025
Thank you very much for the resipe l enjoy the pasta and also my family loved it
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-709754)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Youāre absolutely right! The best recipes come from fearless experimentation. Donāt be afraid to put your own twist on things.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591222)
- Jenica July 24, 2023
This is my go to spaghetti recipe. Iāve made it several times now and I love it. I really appreciate the additional tips on how to adjust the flavor. You can really make it to suit your taste. Personally, I make mine a bit sweeter than most since thatās what I grew up with as a typical Filipino.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-518645)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Iām so glad you enjoy the recipe! Itās always wonderful to hear from people who have made it and loved it. Thank you for sharing your tip about making it a bit sweeter ā thatās a great way to personalize it to your taste. I love that you mentioned your Filipino heritage and how it influences your preferences.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591223)
- yg March 31, 2023
It is goodā¦
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-475647)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Glad you liked it\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591224)
- Mc March 21, 2023
Delicious! I actually turn to Inspired Taste a lot for recipes. š
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-471774)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
That makes me so happy! Thank you for the support and kind words.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591225)
- Victoria B. March 9, 2023
Awesome! I loved it\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-467105)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Yay! Thatās fantastic\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591226)
- Niloo December 13, 2022
It was great im from iran and made this recipe thanks
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-462370)
- Sana January 21, 2026
Me too, im from iran
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-765314)
- Joanne February 27, 2023
We are so happy that you enjoyed it\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-465570)
- Alex L. November 1, 2022
Hello!!! I canāt find any cans of crushed tomatoes in shops around me as of right now⦠is there anything I can substitute for crushed tomatoes?
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-460903)
- Joanne January 27, 2023
Absolutely! Any canned tomatoes will work. You can use a blender, food mill, or even your fingers to crush/blend them into more of a crushed tomato consistency.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-464129)
- Jason Cannon October 18, 2022
Thank you for your recipe.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-460348)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Youāre welcome! I hope you enjoy it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591228)
- dennis kim July 19, 2022
wow\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-454935)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
We hope you try it\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591229)
- Donia May 14, 2022
Itās very delicious, i like it. Itās my favourite food.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-450619)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Awesome\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591230)
- Maria LeBlanc May 12, 2022
Just one question do you drain off the fat from the ground beef?
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-450446)
- Maria November 1, 2022
I have used ground round or ground sirloin to solve the fat problem and whole wheat pasta. Delicious either way.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-460897)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Great tips! Using leaner ground meat and whole wheat pasta are excellent ways to make this dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591227)
- Joanne July 15, 2022
It is up to you. I will if there is a lot left from browning the beef. You want a tablespoon or so left in the pan.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-454350)
- Monah shey April 29, 2022
Its very delicious š my mother liked it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-449353)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Wonderful! Itās always extra special when a recipe gets the family seal of approval.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591233)
- Marisa March 23, 2022
Great recipe! Thank you.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-446501)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Youāre welcome! Iām so glad you enjoyed it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591232)
- Edgar Grant December 8, 2021
Definitely easy, making the sauce for the second time. Family likes it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-440542)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Thatās wonderful to hear! So glad your family enjoys it too.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591231)
- Ana B. October 29, 2021
Super delicious! Used more spices and added a couple punches of brown sugar. Super yummy! Must try, and easy to put your spin on it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-438686)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
That sounds fantastic! I love hearing how people adjust recipes to make them their own. So glad you love it\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591234)
- Teresa Jones March 18, 2022
Knowing how much water would be helpful. Looks good.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-446261)
- Karina Roberson October 27, 2021
When would you add the fish sauce in? After itās already cooked? Or toss it in with other ingredients? Thanks so much\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-438623)
- Joanne July 15, 2022
Yep! Just add a few dashes when the sauce is cooked.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-454351)
- Christie July 17, 2021
Meat sauce almost EXACTLY how my mother and grandmother made it ā YUM! Next time I will try adding the anchovies or fish sauce. Thanks for sharing\!
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-432002)
- Joanne February 14, 2024
Thatās wonderful! Thereās nothing quite like the taste of family recipes. So glad this one brought back good memories.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-591235)
- Maria May 29, 2021
I made this and it was delicious. You are my kind of cooks. Iāve never come across anyone who made cooking so easy, nutritious and delicious. I want to make the food you present, and I will. Thank you so very much for sharing your talents and hard work. The very best to you.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-429172)
- Joanne February 27, 2023
You are very kind. Thank you for coming back and reviewing the recipe! So happy you enjoyed it.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-465571)
- Shizuka Hummel May 22, 2021
My family and friends have fallen in love with your brownie recipe. Since then we love to cook your recipes. Tonight I made this new spaghetti recipe for dinner, and it turns out that itās hard to stop to have another one! I definitely have to share this recipe with my friends š
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-428818)
- Joanne February 27, 2023
This makes us so happy! Thanks for coming back and letting us know.
[Reply](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38940/spaghetti-with-meat-sauce-recipe/#comment-465572)
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| Readable Markdown | My familyās favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with an easy meat sauce is ready in 45 minutes, and you can use your favorite ground meat.

I love pasta for quick weeknight dinners, and this spaghetti tossed with my easy [homemade spaghetti sauce](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38815/homemade-spaghetti-meat-sauce/) fits the bill! You can use any ground meat for this spaghetti recipe. I love ground turkey, but ground beef, pork, and chicken are all excellent.
Of all the [pasta recipes](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/category/recipes/pasta-recipes/) on Inspired Taste, my family makes this spaghetti the most. If you prefer meatballs over meat sauce, see our [spaghetti and meatballs](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/67978/spaghetti-and-meatballs-recipe/). I also love our delicious [baked spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/17832/easy-baked-spaghetti-recipe-with-creamy-pesto/) and this quick [chicken alfredo](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/80471/chicken-alfredo-recipe/) is also perfect is you feel like a creamy sauce instead.
## Key Ingredients
- **Spaghetti:** I love spaghetti for this recipe, but you can use any pasta shape you love. To cook spaghetti, check the package directions. The box should have an approximate cooking time listed. Set a timer 1 to 2 minutes less than the suggested cooking time, and check your spaghetti. I often find that pasta is perfectly al dente before the recommended cooking time.
- **Ground Meat:** Really any ground meat will work in this recipe. Ground turkey and chicken are usually a bit leaner, while ground beef and pork will have more fat. Use what you have and love. For a vegetable pasta sauce, see this [veggie spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38662/veggie-spaghetti-recipe/).
- **Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:** These make the base of our spaghetti sauce. I use canned crushed tomatoes to keep things easy, but you can use store-bought tomato sauce, marinara sauce, or my [homemade red pasta sauce](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/53632/red-pasta-sauce/) (both add more flavor, but in the very best way).
- **Onion, Garlic, and Spices:** These add flavor to our sauce. I keep things as simple as possible since this is an easy everyday kind of recipe. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. For a more intensely flavored sauce, see our [homemade bolognese](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/54981/bolognese/).
*Find the full recipe with measurements below.*

## How to Make the Best Spaghetti
**Tip 1: Make my quick meat sauce.** Itās easy to do. Brown your meat in a bit of oil, and then stir in onions until they soften. Then add lots of flavor with garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. To finish the sauce, add a bit of water (or broth) and crushed tomatoes. You only need to simmer the sauce for about 25 minutes, so about 15 minutes before it is ready, you can cook your spaghetti.

**Tip 2: Cook your spaghetti in salted water.** This is my number 1 tip for the best spaghetti (or pasta for that matter). Pasta water should taste salty. Add one tablespoon of salt for every four quarts (16 cups) of water, which is perfect for cooking one pound of pasta.
**Tip 3: Cook to al dente.** If you still have it, check your package instructions. If youāve tossed the package already, spaghetti takes 8 to 12 minutes. We recommend setting a timer for 8 minutes and then checking your spaghetti to see if it needs longer. Al dente means that your pasta has some texture left and isnāt mushy.
**Tip 4: Donāt rinse your spaghetti.** Thereās no need to rinse spaghetti after cooking, especially if you plan to toss it with a sauce. Rinsing removes the starch, which helps the sauce cling to the noodles. My only caveat to this is when Iām making cold pasta dishes, like [pasta salad](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38019/easy-pasta-salad-recipe/) or [macaroni salad](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38147/creamy-macaroni-pasta-salad/).


## Serving Suggestions
When your spaghetti is ready, toss it with your delicious homemade meat sauce and serve it with some parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. A side of [roasted garlic bread](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/61748/roasted-garlic-bread/) or this [classic garlic bread](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38329/garlic-bread-recipe/) is a good idea, too.
I also love adding a salad on the side. [caesar salad](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/46663/caesar-salad/) is classic, but you can toss your favorite salad greens into a bowl and toss with one of our [homemade salad dressings](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/category/recipes/salad-dressing-recipes/). I especially love our [simple balsamic vinaigrette](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/22819/balsamic-vinaigrette-recipe/).
## More Spaghetti Recipes
- [Baked Spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/17832/easy-baked-spaghetti-recipe-with-creamy-pesto/)
- [Veggie Spaghetti](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/38662/veggie-spaghetti-recipe/)
- [Pasta Carbonara](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/11316/pasta-carbonara-recipe/)

Easy Weeknight Spaghetti
- PREP
5 mins
- COOK
40 mins
- TOTAL
45 mins
This is our favorite weeknight friendly spaghetti recipe with a meat sauce made completely from scratch. You can use ground beef, turkey, pork, chicken, or lamb to make this simple spaghetti. Itās also great with bulk Italian sausage.
If you want to reduce the carbohydrates in your dish, swap half or all of the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Hereās our [recipe for zucchini noodles](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/29992/garlic-zucchini-pasta-recipe/), which includes a tutorial for turning zucchini into pasta. Hereās our tutorial for [how to cook spaghetti squash](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/34185/how-to-cook-spaghetti-squash/).
6 Servings (5 cups of sauce)
## Watch Us Make the Recipe
## You Will Need
1 pound dried spaghetti noodles (450g) 1 pound lean ground meat like ground beef, ground turkey, or bulk Italian sausage (450g) 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup chopped onion (130g) 3 garlic cloves, minced, 1 tablespoon 2 tablespoons tomato paste ½ teaspoon dried oregano Pinch crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup water, broth, or dry red wine (236ml) 1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes Salt and fresh ground black pepper Handful of fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving Parmesan cheese, for serving
## Directions
## Adam and Joanne's Tips
- **Storing/Make-ahead:** Leftover spaghetti and meat sauce last in the fridge for 3 days. You can also make the meat sauce in advance and store it in your refrigerator for up to 3 days or in your freezer for about three months.
- If the flavor of the sauce doesnāt pop, you probably need a bit more salt. If the sauce still lacks flavor, consider adding a few dashes of fish sauce, [mushroom powder](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/52603/mushroom-powder/), minced anchovies, or anchovy paste (both add a rich, savory flavor).
- Adding a leftover rind of a parmesan wedge to the sauce while adding the tomatoes adds richness and extra flavor. It wonāt melt all the way, just remove whatās left before serving.
- If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar.
- The nutrition facts provided below are estimates.
Nutrition Per Serving Serving Size 1/6 of the recipe / Calories 486 / Total Fat 16\.7g / Saturated Fat 4g / Cholesterol 58\.1mg / Sodium 977\.4mg / Carbohydrate 58\.2g / Dietary Fiber 4\.7g / Total Sugars 10\.3g / Protein 27\.3g
**AUTHOR:** Joanne Gallagher
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We are Adam and Joanne Gallagher, the creators of Inspired Taste. Established in 2009, Inspired Taste grew from a childhood dream into one of the internetās most trusted recipe sites with hundreds of reliable recipes, step-by-step videos, and expert tips.[More About Us](https://www.inspiredtaste.net/aboutus/) |
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