If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style, this Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is the answer. It’s a heartwarming classic that brings together tender spaghetti noodles smothered in a rich, homemade meat sauce bursting with flavors of garlic, herbs, and savory tomatoes. Every bite feels like a warm hug from the inside, making it perfect for family dinners or anytime you want to indulge in a taste of traditional Italian-American goodness. Simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, but an unforgettable taste that’s truly timeless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe shine. Each component adds its own magic — from the al dente spaghetti noodles that carry the sauce beautifully to the aromatic herbs that infuse every bite with classic Italian flair.
- 1 pound spaghetti: Choose a good-quality spaghetti that will cook to a perfect al dente texture, providing the perfect base for the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds a silky richness and helps in cooking the beef evenly without sticking.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein that brings hearty, meaty flavor and texture to the sauce.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic provides a fragrant punch that elevates the sauce’s aroma immensely.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: This forms the luscious, thick tomato base of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated flavor booster to deepen the sauce’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes for a smoother taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A must-have herb delivering a warm, earthy note common in Italian dishes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, herbal aroma that complements the robust sauce perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Essential to season and bring all flavors into balance.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat, but feel free to omit for a milder sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the finished dish.
How to Make Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti
Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—firm to the bite but tender. This ensures the noodles hold up nicely without becoming mushy once mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain well and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step infuses the dish with savory depth and a hearty foundation. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Into the same pan with the beef, stir in the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—this brief cooking time prevents the garlic from burning while releasing its wonderful aroma.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Now for the heart of the Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe: add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir thoroughly, then bring the sauce to a simmer. Turning the heat to low, let it gently bubble uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This slow simmer melds the flavors and thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Just before serving, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch adds a creamy, nutty richness that complements the tomato and meat perfectly. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if needed—it’s all about making this recipe your own.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce for an all-in-one dish or spoon the sauce over the noodles on individual plates. Either way, you’re in for a timeless, soul-satisfying meal that captures the essence of the Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh parsley atop each serving. This adds a burst of color and a pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich meat sauce. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a lovely sheen and boost flavor.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or warm garlic bread perfectly balance this hearty dish. Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers also complement the flavors and keep the meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small, oven-safe ramekins topped with a final layer of Parmesan, then broil briefly to create a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, layer the sauce and pasta in a deep bowl, topped with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an inviting presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the sauce and pasta will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an excellent quick meal the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Separate the sauce and cooked spaghetti or freeze them combined in freezer-safe containers. Use within 2 to 3 months for the best quality and flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover spaghetti by warming it gently in a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground pork, Italian sausage, or a mix of beef and pork can be used to create a richer, more complex flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and use a hearty mix of mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together after cooking?
Drain the spaghetti well after cooking and toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil to keep the strands separate. Serving the sauce immediately or mixing the pasta with the sauce right away also helps prevent sticking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
The sauce actually tastes better when made a day in advance! Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Simply refrigerate overnight and reheat gently before serving with fresh pasta.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
No worries! Fresh parsley adds brightness but isn’t essential. You can substitute with fresh basil, oregano, or simply serve without garnish—the sauce’s flavors will still shine through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about the Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe that makes it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s simple yet satisfying, with familiar flavors that bring people together like no other meal can. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s hearty, delicious, and a true taste of tradition that will warm your heart and your kitchen.
Print
Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Old Fashioned Spaghetti is a hearty and classic Italian-American pasta dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich and flavorful meat sauce made with ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and spices. This comforting meal is topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain off excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in tomato paste, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Finish and Season: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and taste to adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce or spoon the sauce over the pasta on individual plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, allow the sauce to simmer longer to deepen the taste.
- Add a splash of red wine during the sauce cooking phase for extra depth.
- This recipe works beautifully with ground pork or Italian sausage as alternatives to ground beef.
