Classic Ground Beef Spaghetti – No Sausage, Just Flavor

Introduction

If you grew up eating ground beef spaghetti, no sausage, no fancy twists — just a big, comforting pot…

Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that stick with us the longest. If you grew up eating spaghetti with just ground beef, no sausage, no fancy twists — just a big, comforting pot of noodles and hearty red sauce — then this Classic Ground Beef Spaghetti is going to bring back delicious memories.

This version skips the sausage entirely, giving all the spotlight to seasoned ground beef, sautéed peppers, garlic, and a perfectly simmered tomato sauce. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with nostalgia and makes everyone rush to the table.

If you’re into nostalgic comfort food, you might also love this rich Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings — it’s another timeless classic full of flavor and heart. And for a side that brings balance and freshness, the Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad is the perfect match.

Ingredients

This recipe focuses on classic ground beef spaghetti with bold flavor and no unnecessary extras.

Pasta & Aromatics:

• 454g rotini, spaghetti, or elbow macaroni (your choice)

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon jarred minced garlic

• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced

Protein & Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for flavor)

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: red pepper flakes for a mild kick

Optional Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil for serving

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter. Set aside.

2. Sauté aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, diced bell pepper, and chopped onion. Cook for 3–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Brown the beef:
   Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.

4. Add tomato base:
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well until everything is combined.

5. Season the sauce:
   Add sugar, oregano, basil, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Combine with pasta:
   Add the buttered pasta into the sauce and toss until fully coated and heated through.

7. Serve:
   Plate the spaghetti hot and top with grated Parmesan and chopped herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Make it saucier: If you prefer more sauce, double the tomato sauce portion or add a splash of pasta water.

• Add veggies: You can mix in mushrooms, zucchini, or even carrots for extra depth.

• Spice it up: A touch of crushed chili flakes or cayenne gives it a kick.

• Skip the sugar: Want it tangier? Omit the sugar entirely or replace it with a splash of balsamic vinegar.

This dish also pairs wonderfully with homemade bread like the No-Oven Cheese Bread or a crisp Basic Vegetable Soup on colder nights.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Portion and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

• Reheating Tip: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen up the sauce.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 4–6 generous servings

Tools Used

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Skillet or sauté pan

• Wooden spoon

• Cutting board and knife

• Measuring spoons

• Colander

Final Thoughts

This Classic Ground Beef Spaghetti is more than just a meal — it’s a throwback to simpler times. It proves that you don’t need sausage or fancy ingredients to build bold, satisfying flavor. With pantry staples and a little love, you get a dish that pleases everyone at the table.

Next time you’re craving a homey, no-fuss dinner that never disappoints, skip the store-bought sauces and sausage. Go back to basics — because nothing beats a hot bowl of spaghetti made with just ground beef and a whole lot of heart.

Want more timeless recipes like this? Check out AllRecipes’ Old-School Pasta Collection for endless inspiration.