Easy Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Ragu: A Family Favorite

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Introduction

Spaghetti with ground beef and Ragu sauce is a classic dinner that never goes out of style. It’s quick, hearty, and incredibly satisfying – perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving some comforting Italian flavors without a lot of fuss. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make spaghetti with ground beef and Ragu sauce step-by-step, share some helpful tips, and answer common questions so your meal turns out delicious every time!

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep mean dinner is ready fast.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.
  • Family Approved: Kids and adults both love the rich, meaty sauce.
  • Customizable: Add veggies, spices, or cheese to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 1 jar (24 oz) Ragu pasta sauce (choose your favorite variety)
  • 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for extra flavor)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta:

    • Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
    • Add a generous pinch of salt, then drop in the spaghetti noodles.
    • Cook according to package directions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
    • Drain the pasta but save about half a cup of the cooking water in case you want to thin the sauce later.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef:

    • While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil if using.
    • Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
    • If you’re using onion and garlic, add them now and sauté until softened.
    • Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Add the Ragu Sauce:

    • Pour the jar of Ragu sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet.
    • Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes so the flavors meld together.
    • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  4. Combine and Serve:

    • Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the meat sauce (or serve the sauce on top of individual portions).
    • Toss everything together so the pasta is nicely coated in sauce.
    • Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Tasty Tips for Perfect Spaghetti

  • Use Lean Beef: Leaner ground beef keeps your sauce from getting too greasy. If you use regular beef, just drain off excess fat after browning.
  • Add Veggies: Sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with your onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Try adding Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if you like a sweeter sauce.
  • Pasta Water Magic: The starchy water from boiling pasta helps thicken and bind your sauce to the noodles. Don’t forget to save some before draining!
  • Cheese Choices: Parmesan is classic, but mozzarella or even ricotta can make your dish extra creamy.

Serving Suggestions

This spaghetti is great on its own but pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed veggies. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a Caprese salad. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor!

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Easy Variations

  • Add Sausage: Swap some ground beef for Italian sausage for extra flavor.
  • Pasta Swaps: Use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you like!
  • Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and use lentils or plant-based crumbles instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, penne, fusilli, or rotini all work well with this hearty meat sauce.

What kind of Ragu sauce should I use?

You can use any Ragu variety you like – traditional, chunky garden, mushroom, or tomato & basil. Pick your favorite!

How do I make this dish ahead?

You can cook the meat sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days. Cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve and reheat the sauce on the stove.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The main ingredients are not gluten-free, but you can easily swap in gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Ragu sauce is gluten-free as well.

Can I double this recipe?

Certainly! Just double all ingredients and use a larger pot or skillet. It’s great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Final Thoughts

This easy spaghetti with ground beef and Ragu sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple enough for beginners but tasty enough to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor every time. Enjoy your homemade Italian classic!

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