For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp dried thyme (optional)

½ tsp salt (or to taste)

¼ tsp black pepper

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

½ cup water or beef broth

For the Pasta:

12 oz spaghetti

Water for boiling

1 tsp salt

For Serving:

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Sauce:
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the water or beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the Spaghetti:
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Assemble & Serve:
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce, or serve the sauce on top of the pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil.

If you’d like a sweeter sauce, try adding 1 grated carrot or a pinch of cinnamon.

For a heartier sauce, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.

To make a Bolognese-style sauce, add ½ cup of milk after browning the meat for a creamy twist.

The sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.