how to cook spaghetti with mince

How to Cook Spaghetti with Mince A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Spaghetti with mince is a classic dish that combines the comforting flavors of pasta, savory ground meat, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply when you crave something hearty and delicious. This article will guide you through the steps to make a mouthwatering spaghetti with mince that is both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

To make spaghetti with mince, you will need the following ingredients

- For the Pasta - 400 grams (14 oz) spaghetti - Salt for boiling water - Water for cooking

- For the Meat Sauce - 500 grams (1 lb) ground beef or ground turkey - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Optional A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat - Fresh parsley or basil for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust your sauce if needed, and then drain the spaghetti in a colander.

Step 2 Prepare the Meat Sauce

While the spaghetti is cooking, you can begin preparing the meat sauce. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn. Once the garlic is fragrant, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat to the skillet. Break the meat apart with a spatula, ensuring it cooks evenly. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Step 3 Combine Ingredients

After browning the meat, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. If you enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 4 Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If you need to extend the sauce or create a silkier texture, you can add a bit more pasta water.

Step 5 Serve and Garnish

Your spaghetti with mince is now ready to be served! Plate the dish and garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. If you like, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the taste.

Conclusion

Cooking spaghetti with mince is a straightforward process that results in a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish not only offers great taste but is also very versatile—you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition. Enjoy your comforting bowl of spaghetti with mince, and share it with family and friends for an enjoyable dining experience. Bon appétit!