![]() |
| Hearty old-school spaghetti made with seasoned ground beef and rich tomato sauce. |
Old-School Spaghetti with Ground Beef (No Sausage) – Classic American Comfort Food
The Best Homemade Spaghetti with Ground Beef – Simple, Hearty & Budget-Friendly
If you're craving a classic old-school spaghetti recipe with ground beef, this comforting dish is exactly what you need. Made with rich tomato sauce, perfectly seasoned beef, and tender pasta, this traditional American-style spaghetti delivers bold flavor without using sausage.
This easy spaghetti recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. It's affordable, filling, and tastes even better the next day!
Whether you're looking for:
- Easy ground beef pasta recipe
- Homemade spaghetti sauce from scratch
- Classic American spaghetti
- Budget-friendly dinner ideas
- High-protein family meals
This recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and sugar.
Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Combine
Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and mix well.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Top with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Why This Recipe Is Popular in America πΊπΈ
✔ Budget-friendly meal
✔ High protein dinner
✔ Easy weeknight recipe
✔ Kid-friendly pasta
✔ Great for meal prep
Ground beef spaghetti remains one of the most searched dinner recipes in the United States because it’s simple, affordable, and satisfying.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450–500
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 55g
- Fat: 18g
Can I make spaghetti with only ground beef and no sausage?
Yes! Ground beef alone creates a rich and classic American-style meat sauce without needing sausage.
What kind of ground beef is best for spaghetti?
80/20 ground beef gives the best flavor. You can use lean beef if you prefer lower fat.
Can I freeze spaghetti with meat sauce?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How do I make spaghetti sauce taste richer?
Let it simmer longer and add a little sugar or a splash of milk to balance acidity.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats very well and tastes even better the next day.
π½️ More Delicious Ground Beef Recipes to Try
If you loved this recipe, don’t miss these other easy and comforting ground beef dishes that are perfect for family dinners. These recipes are packed with flavor, cheesy goodness, and simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
π Easy Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread Rolls
π Cheesy Stuffed Mashed Potato Cups with Ground Beef
π Creamy Meatball Mac and Cheese
Each of these recipes is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights. Click on any recipe above to discover your next favorite meal!

