Description
A hearty and flavorful ground beef pasta sauce that’s perfect for topping your favorite pasta. Made with simple ingredients and packed with rich tomato flavor.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 cup water (as needed)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water to reach the desired consistency.
- Simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add sugar if desired to balance acidity.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve over your favorite cooked pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a richer flavor, simmer the sauce for up to an hour.
- This sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter, fresher taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg