Old-school spaghetti

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Old-School Spaghetti is a classic, hearty pasta dish made with a rich, slow-simmered tomato meat sauce. It’s simple, comforting, and full of nostalgic flavor—just like the kind grandma used to make. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45–60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6–8 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Colander
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • Water (for boiling)
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Meat Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef (or mix beef & pork)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth

For Serving

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil (optional)

Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Meat: A mix of beef and pork gives richer flavor.
  • Crushed Tomatoes: Forms the base of the classic sauce.
  • Herbs: Dried herbs are traditional and give that old-school taste.
  • Sugar: Just a little helps reduce tomato acidity.

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
  4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
  6. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Add crushed tomatoes, water or broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
  8. Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Toss cooked spaghetti with sauce or serve sauce over pasta.
  11. Top with Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving.

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg

Tips

  • Simmering longer makes the sauce richer and deeper in flavor.
  • Save a little pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
  • Don’t rinse pasta after cooking—it helps the sauce stick.
  • Add a splash of milk for a slightly creamy old-fashioned style sauce.

Variations

  • Cheesy Spaghetti Bake: Top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly.
  • Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or hot sauce.
  • Vegetable Sauce: Add mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers.
  • Meatball Style: Replace ground meat with homemade meatballs.

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