Spaghetti with minced meat in tomato sauce

Spaghetti with ground meat in tomato sauce - A classic and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Do you want a tasty, quick, and easy meal? Spaghetti with ground meat in tomato sauce is the perfect choice! This beloved recipe blends the rich flavors of tomato sauce with the delicate texture of pasta, resulting in a dish that brings you comfort and satisfaction. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious dish, step by step.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg ground pork (or a combination of pork and beef for a more complex flavor)
- 500 g egg spaghetti (or another type of preferred pasta)
- 10 medium tomatoes (or a can of chopped tomatoes, depending on the season)
- 50 g butter (for extra creaminess)
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for a touch of spice)
- 2 large white onions (or red onion for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 red bell pepper (for color and flavor)
- 1 head of garlic (for a bold taste)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin, for a richer taste)
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves (for an aromatic flavor)
- A bunch of fresh herbs (parsley or coriander, according to preferences)
- Spices to taste: salt, dried basil, a pinch of chili, oregano

Preparing the tomato sauce with meat:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onion, bell pepper, and hot pepper. If you prefer a less spicy sauce, you can omit the hot pepper. Also, peel and finely chop the garlic cloves. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of your sauce.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. This step is essential for developing flavors. Then, add the garlic and hot pepper, continuing to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden.

3. Adding the meat: Put the ground meat in the skillet, stirring to break it up well. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat changes color and is well cooked (about 5-7 minutes). It is important not to overcook it to retain juiciness.

4. Preparing the sauce: Meanwhile, prepare the tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, wash them well and grate them, removing the skin. Add the tomato pulp to the skillet over the meat, mixing well. Season with salt, dried basil, chili, and oregano to taste. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until it reduces and becomes thicker. You can cover the skillet with a lid to speed up the process.

Cooking the pasta:

5. In a large pot, boil water with a pinch of salt, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. It is important not to overcook them so they remain firm to the bite.

6. Shocking the pasta: Once the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander and rinse it quickly under cold running water. This method stops the cooking process and helps maintain texture. Add the butter to the pasta and gently mix it so that it melts and integrates evenly.

Assembling the dish:

7. On a platter or in deep plates, form nests from the pasta. You can use a fork or a pasta tongs to arrange them nicely.

8. Over each nest of spaghetti, generously add the ground meat sauce with tomatoes. Make sure each serving is well covered so that every bite is full of flavor.

9. Finish with chopped fresh herbs on top. Basil and parsley add a touch of freshness and color, turning the dish into a true visual feast.

Serving and variations:

Spaghetti with ground meat in tomato sauce pairs perfectly with a crunchy green salad or fresh baguette to soak up the delicious sauce. You can add grated Parmesan or mozzarella for an even richer taste. If you want to try a lighter version, you can use ground chicken or turkey.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is a good source of protein due to the ground meat, while tomatoes provide important vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and lycopene. Pasta offers complex carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthy option and adds extra fiber.
- What other spices can I use? You can experiment with your favorite spices, such as cumin or paprika, to customize the flavor of the sauce.
- How can I store leftovers? This recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or oil to prevent sticking.

I hope you will try this delicious recipe for spaghetti with ground meat in tomato sauce! It is a dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 kg ground pork 500 g egg spaghetti 10 medium tomatoes 50 g butter 1 hot pepper 2 large white onions 1 red bell pepper 1 head of garlic 3 tablespoons olive oil 2-3 sprigs of fresh basil a bunch of fresh herbs: I used parsley spices to taste: salt, basil, a pinch of chili, oregano

 Tags:  spaghetti with meat meat pasta pasta with tomato sauce