A Simple Guide to Making Spaghetti with Minced Meat at Home

How to Cook Spaghetti with Mince A Step-by-Step Guide

Spaghetti with mince is a classic dish loved by many for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of pasta and protein. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making a delicious spaghetti with mince from scratch, ensuring you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Ingredients

To serve four people, you will need the following ingredients

- Spaghetti 400 grams - Minced meat 500 grams (beef, pork, or a mix) - Olive oil 2 tablespoons - Onion 1 medium-sized, finely chopped - Garlic 2 cloves, minced - Carrot 1 small, finely diced - Celery 1 stick, finely diced - Canned tomatoes 400 grams (or passata) - Tomato purée 2 tablespoons - Dried oregano 1 teaspoon - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil a small handful, chopped (optional) - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

1. Prepare the Ingredients Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrot and celery. Measure out the canned tomatoes and tomato purée, and have your herbs ready. This will help streamline your cooking process.

2. Cook the Spaghetti Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside. Reserve a small cup of pasta water for later use.

3. Brown the Mince In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Next, add the minced meat to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned all over, approximately 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if using fatty mince.

4. Add Vegetables Once the meat is browned, add the diced carrot and celery to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables have softened.

5. Create the Sauce Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat. Let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce, tossing gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated. Cook for an additional minute to allow the spaghetti to absorb some of the sauce flavor. If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add more pasta water.

7. Serve Once combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the spaghetti with mince hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion Cooking spaghetti with mince is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or on a relaxed weekend, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade spaghetti with mince, and don’t forget to experiment with adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!