Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat Recipe

Ina Garten’s Spaghetti Sauce with Meat is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings the comfort of a homemade meal to your table. This rich, meaty sauce is simmered to perfection, combining ground beef, ripe tomatoes, and a blend of Italian herbs to create a sauce that’s both satisfying and full of depth. Ideal for everything from a simple weeknight dinner to a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What is Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat?

Ina Garten’s Spaghetti Sauce with Meat is a robust and savory sauce made with ground beef, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It’s simmered slowly to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti. The sauce is seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs, making it a classic comfort dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Cauliflower Pasta Bake
• Ina Garten Alfredo Sauce
• Ina Garten Chicken Alfredo

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of ground beef and tomatoes creates a sauce that’s deeply flavorful and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored, making it perfect for busy weeks.
• Versatile: While it’s ideal for spaghetti, this sauce also works well with other types of pasta or even as a base for lasagna.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that both adults and kids will love, making it a great option for family dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it an easy go-to recipe.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 cup of red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Equipment

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For browning the meat and simmering the sauce.
• Wooden Spoon: To stir the sauce and break up the meat as it cooks.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.
• Chef’s Knife: For chopping onions and mincing garlic.
• Cutting Board: To prepare your vegetables.
• Serving Bowl: Toss the sauce with spaghetti before serving.

Instructions to Make Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and garlic to the skillet, cooking until they are softened and fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine (if using) and cook for a few minutes until reduced by half.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and sugar. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
7. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve: Toss the sauce with cooked spaghetti, garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat

• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a fresh, tangy contrast to the hearty sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or asparagus make a nutritious side dish.
• Red Wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Grated Cheese: Extra grated Parmesan or Romano cheese adds a finishing touch of savory goodness.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor that’s essential for depth.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer slowly; this helps the flavors develop fully.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference, especially the salt and sugar.
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Fresh basil added at the end of cooking brightens up the sauce with a fresh, herbaceous note.
• Let it Rest: If you have time, let the sauce rest off the heat for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld even further.

Variations of Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat

• Turkey Spaghetti Sauce: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of the sauce.
• Spicy Spaghetti Sauce: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable-Packed Sauce: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
• Herb-Focused Sauce: Increase the amount of herbs or add a bay leaf while simmering for an aromatic boost.
• No-Wine Version: Skip the wine and add a splash of beef broth instead for a non-alcoholic version.

Storing Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat: Best Practices

• Refrigerate Properly: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for Later: This sauce freezes well; store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat Gently: Reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Reheating Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat: Best Practices

• Stovetop Method: Warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave Method: Reheat individual servings in the microwave, covering to avoid splatters, and stirring halfway through.
• Add a Splash of Liquid: If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

How Can I Make Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce With Meat Healthier?

• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
• Increase Vegetables: Add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the nutritional value.
• Opt for Whole Wheat Pasta: Serve the sauce with whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce Sugar: Use a smaller amount of sugar or a natural sweetener like honey.
• Low-Sodium Options: Choose low-sodium tomatoes or broth to control the salt content in the sauce.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 28g

FAQs

How do I prevent Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce with Meat from being too greasy?

To prevent the sauce from being too greasy, use lean ground beef and drain any excess fat after browning the meat. This will help maintain a balanced texture and flavor in the sauce.

Can I make Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce with Meat in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best with Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce with Meat?

While spaghetti is the classic choice, this sauce also pairs well with other pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or even pappardelle. The key is to choose pasta that can hold up to the hearty meat sauce.

Can I add red wine to Ina Garten Spaghetti Sauce with Meat?

Yes, adding red wine enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce. It’s optional, but highly recommended for a richer taste. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Spaghetti Sauce with Meat is a classic recipe that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich flavor, hearty texture, and endless serving options, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the warmth of a home-cooked meal, and don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your loved ones!

Related Recipes By Garin:

• Ina Garten Crab Salad
• Ina Garten Farro Salad
• Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
• Ina Garten Bolognese Sauce

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