Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean or leaner for less grease)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 more seconds, until fragrant.
- Build the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir until combined. Add the oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let simmer, partially covered, for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, herbs, or a pinch of sugar (if it’s too acidic) to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the sauce over your favorite cooked spaghetti. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips:
- Fresh herbs: If you have them, substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use about 1 tablespoon each of fresh oregano and basil, and 1/2 tablespoon of fresh thyme.
- Variations: Add other vegetables like chopped green bell pepper, mushrooms, or carrots along with the onion.
- Spice it up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day. Make it in advance and reheat before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti sauce!
