Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Sauté Aromatics

   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
2. 2

   Brown the Meat

   • Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef to the pot.
   • Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until it is browned all over, about 6-8 minutes.
   • If there is excessive grease, carefully drain most of it from the pot.
3. 3

   Build and Simmer the Sauce

   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This deepens the tomato flavor.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), 1 tsp salt, and black pepper.