Description
“Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella
”
Ingredients
400g spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
400g ground beef
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and soft.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Combine and Add Mozzarella:
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce until well-coated.
Transfer to a serving dish, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and place under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Enjoy this hearty, cheesy spaghetti dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your water is heavily salted—it should taste like the sea—before adding the spaghetti. While the pasta cooks, start your sauce. Cook the onions slowly until translucent, not browned, to build a sweet base. When browning the beef, break it into small crumbles and don’t stir too often; this allows for flavorful fond to develop on the pan. After adding the tomatoes and herbs, let the sauce simmer uncovered to thicken properly. Finally, combine the al dente pasta with most of the sauce in the skillet, letting it finish cooking together for a minute so the spaghetti absorbs the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete Italian meal, start with garlic bread or bruschetta. To elevate the presentation, serve in a wide, shallow bowl and garnish with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti or Sangiovese is the perfect beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
Boil salted water and cook spaghetti. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic, then brown ground beef. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer to thicken. Combine pasta and sauce, top with mozzarella, and broil until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. This meat sauce works wonderfully with rigatoni, fettuccine, or any short pasta shape that holds sauce well.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You may need to adjust seasoning.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the meat sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before combining with freshly cooked pasta.
My sauce is too acidic. How can I fix it? A pinch of sugar or a grated carrot added during simmering can balance acidity. A splash of milk or a tablespoon of butter stirred in at the end also mellows the flavor.
Why is my cheese not melting properly under the broiler? Ensure the cheese is freshly shredded from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting. Also, make sure the pasta and sauce are hot when you add the cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the spaghetti. Always aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently. This is your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Adding raw garlic to hot oil without the onion, which can cause it to burn and turn bitter. Mince it and add with the onions.
- Using lean ground beef, which can result in a dry sauce. A 80/20 or 85/15 blend provides better flavor and moisture.
- Skipping the simmering time. Rushing this step prevents the flavors from melding and the sauce from reaching the ideal consistency.
Conclusion
This Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella is a classic, comforting dish that is deceptively simple to master. By focusing on foundational techniques like building layers of flavor in the sauce and perfectly cooking the pasta, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The final broiled mozzarella topping adds a delightful, gooey finish that makes it truly special. With the tips and guidance provided, you’re now equipped to avoid common pitfalls and adapt the recipe to your taste. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of creating a delicious, satisfying dinner that is sure to become a family favorite.