Spaghetti with Spicy Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce

This spaghetti with spicy ground beef and tomato sauce delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite. The rich tomato base is seasoned with aromatic herbs and chili for heat, making it a hearty and satisfying pasta dish suitable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food with a spicy kick
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Customizable spice level
• Great for family meals or casual gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti or pasta of choice
• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil
• Red chili flakes or chopped fresh chili
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
4. Stir in garlic and chili flakes; cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
6. Stir in tomato paste, followed by crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Reduce heat and simmer the sauce for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
8. Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce until well coated.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
• Mix in olives or capers for a Mediterranean twist.
• Replace chili flakes with hot Italian sausage for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in portions until hot.
• Sauce and pasta can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, reduce or omit the chili flakes to make it mild.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

Spaghetti, linguine, or rigatoni all work well.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, though homemade tomato sauce gives more control over flavor and spice.

Is Parmesan cheese necessary?

It’s optional but adds a savory finishing touch.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of red wine enhances the flavor—add it after browning the beef.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking?

Toss cooked pasta with a bit of olive oil if not using immediately.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, but you’ll need to peel and cook them down into a sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately spicy by default; adjust the heat to your preference.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, stir in some grated cheese for extra richness.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with spicy ground beef and tomato sauce is a flavorful twist on a beloved classic. With its robust, warming flavors and ease of preparation, it’s an excellent choice for busy nights or when you’re craving something bold and hearty.

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