Minutes
COOK TIME
40 mins
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) Americana minced beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14–15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of sugar (to balance acidity, optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the pasta:
12 oz–1 lb spaghetti
Salt (for pasta water)
Grated Parmesan (for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2
Make the beef sauce:
Step 3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 4
Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3–5 minutes.
Step 5
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Step 6
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 7
Stir in tomato paste (if using), cook for 1 minute.
Step 8
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
Step 9
Simmer on low heat for 10–20 minutes. Add reserved pasta water if sauce gets too thick.
Step 10
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce in the skillet or serve the sauce on top.
Step 11
Plate and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
Step 12
Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
