Old-school spaghetti holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many. It’s the kind of recipe that connects us to childhood memories—sitting around the dinner table, savoring every bite, and often fighting for the last strand! This time-honored dish brings a comforting embrace of flavors, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or a sunny Sunday family gathering. It’s a dish that echoes warmth, nostalgia, and simplicity, bringing together easy-to-find ingredients that create a meal that feels both gourmet and homey.
What makes this dish worth your time?
Imagine a meal that’s not just easy on your wallet but also quick to prepare and utterly satisfying. This old-school spaghetti checks all those boxes. Whether you’re looking for a meal to feed a crowd or just want to whip up something comforting on a lazy evening, this recipe is a win. It’s a classic that never goes out of style—kid-approved and guaranteed to please picky eaters of all ages.
“Absolutely delicious! This spaghetti recipe brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s a staple in our home now!” — Happy Cook
Step-by-step overview
The beauty of this old-school spaghetti lies in its simplicity. You’ll start by cooking that perfect al dente spaghetti while your sauce simmers away, filling your kitchen with fragrant, mouthwatering aromas. First, sauté the onions until they’re translucent, then add the ground beef to create a rich foundation for your sauce. Toss in some garlic, crushed tomatoes, and herbs, and let it simmer until it’s thick and luxurious. Finally, mix in your spaghetti and serve!
What you’ll need
Gather these essential components for your classic spaghetti dish:
- 400 g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 450 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (800 g / 28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
You can easily substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian twist, and feel free to adapt the spices to suit your taste!
