Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Cook the pasta in plenty of salted water according to the package directions. Drain, reserving a cup of the cooking water.
2. Prepare the sauce
Heat the olive oil in a pan. Sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add the ground meat and cook until crumbly and golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook briefly for extra flavor.
Add the passata and simmer the sauce gently for 10–15 minutes. Add a little pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
3. Serving
Toss the pasta with the sauce or serve it separately.
Garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh basil, or a pinch of chili.
Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Make it vegetarian by using lentils or vegetable crumbles instead of ground meat.
For more vegetables: add grated carrot, zucchini, or bell pepper to the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
Ground meat: adds texture, flavor, and protein.
Tomato paste + passata: forms a rich, slightly sweet base. Herbs: create an authentic Italian flavor.
Pasta: filling, comforting, and brings the whole dish together.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! The sauce is perfect to make ahead and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Can I freeze this?
Absolutely. Freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. Heat gently and add water if necessary.
3. Which pasta is best?
Spaghetti is classic, but penne or rigatoni also absorb the sauce well.
Nutritional value (per serving – approximate)
Calories: ±550 kcal
Protein: ±30 g
Carbohydrates: ±45 g
Fat: ±25 g
Fiber: ±5 g
Conclusion
This pasta with homemade meat sauce is a dish that invites sharing. Warm, flavorful, and timeless – perfect for a dinner with friends or a cozy family Sunday. Enjoy!
