Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef Pasta Sauce is a hearty, flavorful classic that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this homemade sauce is packed with ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs. It pairs beautifully with any pasta and can be doubled for freezing or meal prepping.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
olive oil
onion
garlic cloves
crushed tomatoes
tomato paste
tomato sauce
beef broth or water
dried oregano
dried basil
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)
sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
bay leaf
fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth or water.

Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, sugar (if using), and bay leaf.

Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning adjustments.

Serve over cooked pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Add finely chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Splash in a bit of red wine for richer flavor.
Include mushrooms for added depth and texture.
Blend in cream or mascarpone for a creamy twist.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a bit of water if needed.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta works well.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the meat or use plant-based crumbles.

Should I add sugar?
A small amount helps cut acidity, especially if the tomatoes are very tart.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, but they’ll need to be peeled, chopped, and cooked longer to break down.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Yes, stirring in Parmesan or Romano adds richness.

Is this sauce spicy?
It’s mild, but you can increase the red pepper flakes for heat.

How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered longer to reduce liquid, or add tomato paste.

Can I double the recipe?
Definitely—just use a larger pot and adjust seasoning to taste.

Can I use jarred sauce as a base?
Yes, but reduce added salt and seasonings accordingly.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Pasta Sauce is a simple, satisfying recipe that never disappoints. Rich in flavor and easy to customize, it’s a staple for quick dinners, freezer meals, or family gatherings. Serve it over your favorite pasta and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s always a hit.