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Spaghetti Meat Sauce Recipe

Spaghetti Meat Sauce is beefy, juicy and so satisfying. It comes together fast so it is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s freezer friendly. Meat sauce has all of the comforting flavors of Spaghetti and Meatballs, or traditional Bolognese but is much easier!

Serve this meat sauce over spaghetti with a generous amount of parmesan cheese, paired with asparagus and crusty French bread. P.S. You can also use this meat sauce to make the Best Lasagna.

Spaghetti meat sauce in a dutch oven with a mixing spoon

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Spaghetti Meat Sauce

This is my sister Svetlana’s ground beef meat sauce recipe. She uses an original Prego sauce and makes it for camping every year. You can use a homemade marinara sauce or your favorite store-bought marinara. I’ve gotten so many requests for her famous meat sauce recipe so here it is! This one rivals Olive Garden’s spaghetti and meat sauce.

Spaghetti meat sauce in a bowl of spaghetti garnished with parmesan cheese and basil

Which Pasta for Meat Sauce?

Here’s the beauty of this recipe – you can pair it with your favorite pasta! Meat Sauce for pasta is traditionally made with spaghetti, but it goes really well with any of these:

  • String Pastas – Spaghetti, Linguine, Fettuccine
  • Ribbon Pastas – Pappardelle or Tagliatelle
  • Tubular Pastas – Penne, Cannelloni, Rigatoni, Ziti
  • Corkscrew Pastas – Cavatappi

Spaghetti pasta for meat sauce with remaining ingredients

How to Make Spaghetti Meat Sauce:

The ingredients for this meat sauce recipe are pantry staples and we always keep a stash of ground beef in the freezer for the days we don’t have a lot of time to get dinner on the table. It comes together in 1 pot or dutch oven and really doesn’t get any easier than this. Seriously the best meat sauce!

  1. Sautee ground beef until no longer pink.
  2. Add chopped onion, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp pepper, cook until soft then add garlic and sautee until fragrant.
  3. Add marinara sauce, 1/4 cup water and 1 tsp sugar. Partially cover and simmer meat sauce 20 minutes. Done!

step by step how to make spaghetti meat sauce in a dutch oven

How to Freeze Meat Sauce:

Meat sauce will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To store it longer, transfer meat sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving just a slight amount of headroom at the top. We prefer freezing meat sauce in freezer ziploc bags because it lays flat in the freezer and can be quick-thawed under running water.

How to Defrost Meat Sauce?

There are a few ways to defrost meat sauce. Once it is fully thawed, reheat over medium heat just until hot and simmering.

  • Quick-thaw method: Place the sealed bag of meat sauce in a bowl under cold water until thawed.
  • Slow-thaw method: Place the frozen meat sauce in the refrigerator overnight.
  • For a camping trip: place packaged frozen meat sauce in a cooler with ice and let it thaw as in a refrigerator overnight.

Defrosted meat sauce reheated in a pot with mixing spoon

Family Friendly Pasta Dinners:

This Spaghetti Meat Sauce makes for an irresistibly good pasta dinner loved by all ages! It makes a big batch but you can easily freeze meat sauce for another night. I hope this ground beef meat sauce becomes a new favorite in your home!

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Spaghetti Meat Sauce

4.99 from 167 votes
Author: Natasha Kravchuk
Spaghetti meat sauce in a pot
Homemade Spaghetti Meat Sauce is beefy, juicy and so satisfying. This Meat Sauce recipe comes together fast so it is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's freezer friendly.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 27 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 8 people
  • 1 lb ground beef, 15% fat
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 12 oz spaghetti, to serve

Instructions

  • Place a pot or dutch oven over medium heat, add 1 lb ground beef and sautee, breaking it up with a spatula until no longer pink (5 minutes).
  • Add chopped onion, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp pepper and sautee until onions are soft.
  • Add garlic and sautee another 1-2 minutes until fragrant then pour in 1 jar of marinara sauce, 1/4 cup water and 1 tsp sugar. Cover and simmer over low heat 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, cook 12 oz of spaghetti in salted water to desired doneness according to package instructions then drain. Serve sauce with cooked pasta.

Notes

There are 2 ways to serve spaghetti and meat sauce: Add drained spaghetti to the finished sauce and toss to coat. Or, Add pasta to warm pasta bowls and top with meat sauce.

Nutrition Per Serving

309kcal Calories38g Carbs17g Protein9g Fat3g Saturated Fat38mg Cholesterol777mg Sodium563mg Potassium2g Fiber5g Sugar370IU Vitamin A7.2mg Vitamin C33mg Calcium2.7mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Amount per Serving
Calories
309
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
9
g
14
%
Saturated Fat
 
3
g
19
%
Cholesterol
 
38
mg
13
%
Sodium
 
777
mg
34
%
Potassium
 
563
mg
16
%
Carbohydrates
 
38
g
13
%
Fiber
 
2
g
8
%
Sugar
 
5
g
6
%
Protein
 
17
g
34
%
Vitamin A
 
370
IU
7
%
Vitamin C
 
7.2
mg
9
%
Calcium
 
33
mg
3
%
Iron
 
2.7
mg
15
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: meat sauce, spaghetti meat sauce
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $8-$10
Calories: 309

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see pics of your creations on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! Hashtag them #natashaskitchen

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Natasha Kravchuk

Welcome to my kitchen! I am Natasha, the blogger behind Natasha's Kitchen (since 2009). My husband and I run this blog together and share only our best, family approved and tested recipes with YOU. Thanks for stopping by! We are so happy you're here.

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Read comments/reviewsAdd comment/review

  • Al
    November 13, 2023

    Good, simple recipe. The choice of marinara sauce is what will make or break it. Mine was ok so the end result wasn’t the best I’ve ever had, but that’s because of the sauce I used. Nonetheless, it was much more flavorful and elevated than my previous meat sauces. My serving suggestion is angel hair pasta. It’s a truly complementary texture to a chunky meat sauce. Thank you for another good recipe! I saved your marinara sauce to try next.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 14, 2023

      Thank your for sharing that with us, good to know that you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • CC
    July 23, 2023

    I’ve tried so many recipes for meat sauce and this was a WINNER. Hands down easiest, tastiest recipe ever. DO NOT omit the cumin people!! It is essential and the one ingredient missing from all other meat sauce recipes. I could eat this every day! I’ll be poring over all of Natasha’s other recipes because of the success and ease of this one.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      July 24, 2023

      Thanks for the awesome review! So happy to see that you loved this recipe a lot.

      Reply

  • Lisa
    June 13, 2023

    Do you still add sugar if using store bought marinara? Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 13, 2023

      Hi Lisa, the sugar helps with the acidity and sour notes. We add it for that reason. I recommend trying to make it as written the first time around and then adjusting to your liking. I hope you love this recipe.

      Reply

  • Toni
    April 22, 2023

    I was set to make your recipe
    However I just can’t imagine the sauce with Cumin
    In my Italian family life I don’t think cumin was ever used
    I fear it would ruin the end result
    Any one have feedback on this?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 22, 2023

      Hi Toni, it’s very subtle in this recipe but makes the flavor. I recommend making it as written the first time around to give it a try, we believe we found the perfect balance. Here’s what one of my readers wrote: “HATS OFF TO YOUR SISTER! I made this tonight and it was delicious !!! I have to say I was skeptical about using cumin but it gave the sauce excellent flavor. I also used some ground sausage along with the Hamburg and used some beef broth in place of the water. Doubled the recipe for freezing 😊” I hope this helps!

      Reply

  • Terri King
    April 10, 2023

    We all love Natasha’s greatest recipes! My family and I love EVERYTHING you have taught us! Terri K Beaver UT

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      April 10, 2023

      Hi Terri! I’m so glad you are loving the recipes. Thanks so much for the love and support!

      Reply

  • Ed McFadden
    February 27, 2023

    Half ground beef and half hot Italian sausage kicks it up a notch. Mushrooms always and green pepper sometimes. Definitely try the cinnamon 1/4 tsp. sparingly. I will try the cumin. Always homemade marinara. I always do triple batch, freeze for two no cook meals later. Try sliced black olives for topping before eating.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 27, 2023

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Ed! I’m so glad you enjoyed this meat sauce recipe!

      Reply

  • Dorothy
    February 20, 2023

    Nice, I have 3 hot Italian sausages that will be useful here. Will add more sauce to compensate for the extra meat. Thank you.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      February 20, 2023

      Sounds great! 🙂

      Reply

  • Wendy
    January 17, 2023

    Yes, What kind cheese are you using that you grate in your cheese grater? So when I go to the grocery store I can ask if they carry it. There many to choose from, but I was wondering what brand and type you use. Thank you!!😇

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      January 17, 2023

      Hi Wendy! It’s parmesan cheese. 🙂

      Reply

  • KA
    January 11, 2023

    Simple, tastes great. Followed exactly and added fresh mushrooms as my family loves them and I had a few I needed to use. The only thing easier would be take out!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      January 11, 2023

      Thank you for sharing!

      Reply

  • Patti Ferguson
    December 6, 2022

    I’m enjoying your website. I have a question please. When I make spaghetti sauce and serve it over spaghetti pasta on a plate, there is watery liquid that starts to pool on the plate around the hot sauce and pasta. What am I doing wrong? I drain my pasta well for several minutes and I don’t rinse it before adding the sauce on the plate. Help please!! Thank you,
    Patti Ferguson
    A Mississippi fan.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      December 6, 2022

      Hi Patti! I’m so glad you my recipes. It must be coming from somewhere, usually, this happens when the pasta is not drained well or adding too much water to the sauce and not letting the sauce simmer long enough could make it too watery.

      Reply

  • Kolton Bailey
    November 22, 2022

    Hi! I use this recipe all the time and it’s great! My only complaint is 309 calories is shown but there is no serving size. For somebody who trackers their calories I don’t know how much sauce and noodles is equal to the said 309 calories

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 22, 2022

      Hi Kolton! I’m glad you enjoyed the recipe. At the top of the recipe card, it lists the number of servings this recipe makes. Unfortunately, you have to divide the whole recipe into those servings, the nutrition facts tool that we use for this website does not allow us to be that specific. We are always trying to improve our user experience and maybe this is something that we can fix in the future.

      Reply

  • Armande Landry
    August 23, 2022

    Hello Natasha, I really like your recipes can’t wait for you cook book to be published.Hope we’ ll be able to get it in Ontario.keep up the gook work Thank you so much xo

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 23, 2022

      Hi Armande! I’m so glad you enjoy my recipes. Yes, I’m excited for the cookbook to be done, I’m working hard at it. 🙂

      Reply

    • Whitney
      August 29, 2022

      My husband (42) has never liked spaghetti, as a kid or adult, but he really enjoyed this recipe! Finally! I followed the recipe completely and used a jar of Rao’s tomato and basil sauce.

      Reply

      • Natasha's Kitchen
        August 29, 2022

        Yay that’s awesome to know! Glad to hear that and thanks for sharing.

        Reply

  • Beverly Leszczynski
    August 5, 2022

    looks so good, today I know what for dinner. You are awesome young lady. Thank you for all the good recipe.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 5, 2022

      Thank you, Beverly! I hope you enjoy this recipe. 🙂

      Reply

  • Chelsey Ward
    July 29, 2022

    I don’t enjoy spaghetti but this was amazing! My family loved it. We are having a “Natasha’s Kitchen” week where every recipe is from your website! My husband is such a picky eater and he has loved EVERYTHING we have tried. Thank you!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      July 30, 2022

      Oh, how fun! So glad your family enjoyed this recipe. Thank you for the wonderful review, Chelsey. 🙂

      Reply

  • Debra Thiele
    July 15, 2022

    Another fantastic recipe from Natasha! The meat sauce with your marinara sauce is the best spaghetti sauce I have ever had! It will be my go to now! So much better than jarred sauce! Thank you Natasha for all you have taught me.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      July 16, 2022

      Thank you for the wonderful review, Debra. You’re very welcome.

      Reply

  • Julie Tate
    July 11, 2022

    This recipe is as close to my own as I’ve seen. I like to add a diced green bellpepper, too, as I do in meatloaf. My secret ingredient is cocoa powder which cuts the acidity in the tomatoes. Cumin is GREAT in chili and vegetarian vegetable soup, too. So much flavor!

    Reply

  • Sabrina
    July 9, 2022

    We haven’t tried this yet, we love all your recipes that we have tried. However, I have a question on this one; can you tell me why you use Marinara sauce instead regular spaghetti sauce? I’ve seen several recipes call for this and I’m just curious as to why.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 9, 2022

      Hi Sabrina, It makes this recipe quicker and easier to make. I hope you love this recipe!

      Reply

  • Randall Clark
    July 8, 2022

    Disappointed that you would put cumin or bottled sauce in a “sauce” recipe
    But I still love your website.

    Reply

  • Julie
    July 8, 2022

    Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
    Yours sounds delicious and much like the way I make mine. I don’t really have a lot of recipes. Just throw ingredients together. And for this sauce I like to use some dried Italian herbs to simmer in the sauce.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 9, 2022

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Julie! I’m glad you loved that.

      Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      July 9, 2022

      Thank you! I hope you try it and love it, Julie. Let us know what you think if you make it.

      Reply

  • Theresa
    June 30, 2022

    Made this last night for supper!!!! It was soooooooo good!!! Lol
    Thank you, Natasha for another amazing recipe!!! You have taught me so much and I’m so thankful for you!!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 30, 2022

      I’m so glad! Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Theresa!

      Reply

  • Anne Winkelmann
    May 30, 2022

    Never thought of cumin as something in spaghetti sauce. Sounds interesting.

    Reply

  • Vinnitsa
    May 12, 2022

    This was soooo good!! So easy, and the flavors AMAZING. My 11 year old daughter asked for a bolognese and this was a hit. Will stay as a staple in my home 🙂

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      May 12, 2022

      Love it! Thanks a lot for the good comments and feedback.

      Reply

  • Brian D
    April 18, 2022

    Hi there Natasha, you have some of the same recipes that I have. Like your spaghetti sauce, but I use green pepper, tomato sauce diced tomatoes and a handful of Italian seasoning. The wife says it’s the best. Thick and chunky. not soupy. Thanks a bunch for your recipes.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 18, 2022

      You’re welcome, Brian. I hope you and your wife will enjoy all the recipes that you will try!

      Reply

  • Sue
    March 16, 2022

    Do you drain the grease from the beef after browning? No one mentioned this

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 16, 2022

      Hi Sue, we did not need to drain the meat but feel free to do so if it comes out too greasy.

      Reply

  • Joyce
    February 14, 2022

    OMG so easy quick and delicious!! I used a jar of rao’s bolognese sauce and it was divine. Will be making this quite often!❤️

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 14, 2022

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us, Joyce!

      Reply

  • Ellie
    February 2, 2022

    Absolutely delicious. I went with ground chicken instead of beef, and I know it would’ve been even better with beef. I added double the salt and garlic, and included some liquid aminos and liquid smoke as well! Thank you for this recipe.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 2, 2022

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Ellie! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Dianne
    January 20, 2022

    In the picture it looks like you’ve added cherry tomatoes…I’ve never seen marinara with whole tomatoes in it..

    Reply

  • Jen
    January 14, 2022

    I made this last night as directed and it was absolutely delicious! I saved the recipe to use in the future. Thank you!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 14, 2022

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Jen!

      Reply

  • Quyen
    December 30, 2021

    A favorite in our family. My kids gave me so much praises for this meal. I said it is from this recipe.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 30, 2021

      That is the best when kids love what we parents make. That’s so great!

      Reply

  • James E Jackson III
    December 3, 2021

    Made this last night for dinner. Everyone loved it – Absolutely fantastic Natasha!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 3, 2021

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, James! I’m glad it was a hit!

      Reply

  • Tom Mulcahy
    September 20, 2021

    hmm never thought of using cumin in spaghetti sauce. not gonna lie was damn good.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 20, 2021

      Very nice to know that you tried and loved it!

      Reply

  • Margot Bradley
    September 17, 2021

    This was really good. Instead of water, I added red wine and swished it around in the Marinara sauce jar before adding. I also seasoned more with inning and garlic powder and added sliced cherry tomatoes. Topped with fresh basil and freshly heated parmesan. Thank you… it was outstanding!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 17, 2021

      Yum! Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Margot! I’m glad you enjoyed this recipe!

      Reply

  • Shelly
    September 13, 2021

    This is so delicious and easy to make! I served it with fresh bread & salad! Yum, yum!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 13, 2021

      Hi Shelly, we LOVE easy recipes, and I’m so glad you do too! Thank you for sharing your great review

      Reply

  • Jane
    August 16, 2021

    I made this last night and I was surprised how quick and easy it was. My husband kept raving about it so this will definitely be added as a staple dinner for us!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 16, 2021

      Aww, that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Jane. I’m so happy you both enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Michaela
    August 12, 2021

    I’m planning on using this recipe tonight for dinner😋 with raviolis. I made your marinara sauce last time and it was tasty.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 12, 2021

      That sounds like the perfect dinner, Michaela!

      Reply

  • Theresa DuBois
    August 5, 2021

    I LOVE your recipes!! They have saved this single mom who teaches!! Your chicken stroganoff is one of our favs!!
    I’m diabetic, so could I replace the sugar in this sauce with something like Splenda?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      August 6, 2021

      Thanks and I’m glad you’re enjoying my recipes, Theresa! I haven’t tried using splenda yet to advice but if you do an experiment, please share with us how it goes.

      Reply

    • Claudia Brehm
      January 20, 2022

      Instead of putting sugar in my sauce I grate up a couple of carrots to sweeten the sauce/. They disappear as the sauce simmers or you can put slice carrots for a chunky sauce. This is the way my daughter likes it, I learned this from my mother.

      Reply

  • David Culbertson
    August 2, 2021

    Deeelish. Really tasty. Even my wife , who knows im culinarily challenged ( she’s right, im a lousy cook) liked it. Next time, I’ll add a bit more meat.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 2, 2021

      I’m so glad you both enjoyed that, David! That’s so great!

      Reply

  • Ml
    May 20, 2021

    It’s not from scratch if you use a jar of sauce …

    Reply

  • Janet Petersen
    May 11, 2021

    This is how I make mine but will try adding cumin and sugar!! I also add an extra cup of water and the pasta and simmer until pasta is done..

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      May 12, 2021

      Sounds like a good plan, please share with us how it goes if you give that a try!

      Reply

    • June
      September 10, 2021

      I use chicken broth instead of water…seems to add more flavour (or maybe it’s in my head!! 🙄) lol 😂

      Reply

      • Natashas Kitchen
        September 10, 2021

        Thank you so much for sharing that with us, June!

        Reply

  • Mark
    May 11, 2021

    Natasha,
    First I would use a large can of San Marzzano tomatoes for the sauce instead of jarred marinara sauce and then a good tablespoon of dried Italian spices! And no cumin!!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      May 13, 2021

      Hi Mark, thanks for sharing your version and ideas.

      Reply

    • Acsana
      July 10, 2021

      I don’t understand why people have to go in and make remarks on how they would change the recipe. It’s her recipe, it’s how she makes it. Leave it at that. If you don’t like it, don’t make it.

      Reply

    • Mary Cascio
      September 7, 2021

      You’re right, Mark. Absolutely no cumin!

      Reply

      • Mar
        March 29, 2022

        BUT— have you tried it? Many of Natashas recipes have a surprise ingredient that takes it over the top. I was skeptical about topping our clam chowder with cilantro but it was fabulous.

        Reply

  • M. Perez
    April 28, 2021

    I liked that there were few ingredients and it was easy to make. The recipe was okay, but I feel like it was missing something.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 28, 2021

      Thanks for your feedback, what would you suggest to add to make it better?

      Reply

      • Mary
        February 1, 2022

        I added a small can of tomato sauce and it made a huge difference 🙂

        Reply

    • Robyn
      June 10, 2021

      I agree. For me it was very bland.

      Reply

  • Dimitrije Todorovic
    April 27, 2021

    Just perfect. I do it exactly same way only add sometimes (when I have it) some basil and parsley. Also, I never understand why people make meat balls with spaghetti?! They have to dissolve it anyway 🙂

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 27, 2021

      I’m so glad you enjoeyd this recipe!!

      Reply

  • Tara
    March 9, 2021

    Hi Natasha! Quick question? I’m looking to make the recipe tomorrow in a crockpot. I have ground turkey I want to use up. Do you have any suggestions on using the crockpot? Thanks so much!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 9, 2021

      Hi Tara, I honestly haven’t tried that yet to advise of the timing. If you do an experiment, please share with us how it goes.

      Reply

  • Nancy
    February 18, 2021

    Mushrooms would be a nice addition.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 18, 2021

      Great suggestion! Thank you, Nancy!

      Reply

  • Gregg
    February 15, 2021

    From the photo of finished sauce appears to have cherry tomato’s in the sauce.
    not listed in ingredients ?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      February 15, 2021

      Hi Gregg, everything that I used is in the recipe card. I used my homemade Marinara Sauce

      Reply

  • Holly Jones
    January 24, 2021

    Is it ok if I browned the raw ground beef with chopped onion and then I drained the fat before adding the rest of the ingredients?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      January 25, 2021

      Hi Holly, yes that would work just fine too. I hope you love this recipe!

      Reply

  • Michelle
    January 8, 2021

    First review I have ever made, but it was so simple and good I had to. I was a little skeptical on the cumin, but it really gave the sauce something special! Best ever!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 9, 2021

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Naila
    November 23, 2020

    Loved it ! So simple to make and really flavorful. Thank you so much

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 23, 2020

      You’re welcome Naila! I’m happy you enjoyed this recipe!

      Reply

  • Susan
    October 16, 2020

    Absolutely delicious. So simple to make. I find myself going straight to your blog for recipes. Another success. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 16, 2020

      You’re most welcome, Susan. Thank you for trusting and enjoying my recipes!

      Reply

  • Alina
    September 9, 2020

    Hi, can I put this Recipe together in a freezer zip lock bag and pull out later to cook?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 9, 2020

      Hi Alina, yes this recipe is freezer friendly. Meat sauce will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To store it longer, transfer meat sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving just a slight amount of headroom at the top. We prefer freezing meat sauce in freezer ziploc bags because it lays flat in the freezer and can be quick-thawed under running water.

      Reply

  • adriana
    July 28, 2020

    hi I don’t understand how to make the sauce… I made quite a few of your recipes and I do good…but this one im having trouble…

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      July 28, 2020

      Hi Adriana, I recommend you to review the recipe again as the whole process is stated there. What are you exactly having problems with?

      Reply

  • Marisa
    June 8, 2020

    HI Natasha!

    When you sauté the ground beef, do you add oil to it? Or do you just add the beef to the pan and let it brown?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 8, 2020

      We do not add oil to the pan.

      Reply

  • Alexandra
    May 24, 2020

    Great meat sauce! Husband and I loved this one. So simple and easy to make. Served this with homemade garlic bread. Great Sunday meal 🙂

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      May 25, 2020

      Glad you loved this recipe, thanks for your excellent feedback!

      Reply

  • Thomas
    May 17, 2020

    Do you make your own sauce, or just store bought, I always make my own, it takes longer, but so much better

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      May 17, 2020

      We always try to use our homemade sauce and totally agree – homemade is always better!

      Reply

  • Kaitlyn
    May 9, 2020

    I made this for Mother’s Day and it worked great! So easy and delicious

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      May 9, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Andrea
    April 30, 2020

    So yummy! I make a double batch and freeze for an easy dinner. Easy, love!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 30, 2020

      That’s just awesome!! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Jennifer Rodriguez
    April 19, 2020

    HATS OFF TO YOUR SISTER! I made this tonight and it was delicious !!! I have to say I was sceptical about using cumin but it gave the sauce excellent flavor. I also used some ground sausage along with the Hamburg and used some beef broth in place of the water. Doubled the recipe for freezing 😊

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 19, 2020

      Thank you for your appreciation, Jennifer. Nice to know that you enjoyed your dinner! Thanks for giving this recipe a wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Andrew Oestreich
    March 30, 2020

    Gave this a whirl and it came as advertised. Simple, easy, tasty and filling. It’s a keeper.

    Followed it verbatim but added a little veggie to it – peppers. I also used the Victoria White Linen Collection Marinara sauce sold at Costco which is my favourite. Well worth the money!

    Thanks to Svetlana!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 30, 2020

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Diane
    March 3, 2020

    We just finished dinner with this spaghetti sauce recipe. My husband is very picky with sauces because he finds them too acidic for his stomach. He gave it a thumbs up tonight. I think it was the addition of a small amount of added sugar. I remembered my Mom telling me that sugar takes away the acidity. I will look forward to future spaghetti dinners!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 3, 2020

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Martha
    February 19, 2020

    Hi Natasha, what is the difference between marinara and pasta sauce? I have a large pack of the Kirkland pasta sauces, and trying to figure out if there is something I should add that would make it a proper substitute, I read something about oregano, but that’s as far as I’ve gotten. Maybe they are interchangeable in this context? Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      February 20, 2020

      Hi Martha, Marinara and Pasta sauce are used interchangeably and they can vary by the seasonings added. The Kirkland Pasta sauce will work for this recipe. The only time it isn’t the same is if it says “Tomato Sauce” as that would be just tomato sauce and not a pre-made pasta sauce. The Kirkland Pasta Sauce that I have also says “marinara sauce” on the label.

      Reply

    • Robert Phillips
      January 2, 2021

      My mother always said a pinch of cinnamon is a necessity in any tomato based pasta sauce. Not sure how it pares with cumin though…

      Reply

      • Robert Phillips
        January 2, 2021

        pares? excuse my spelling on this one, couldn’t find an edit button

        Reply

  • ELAINE
    January 22, 2020

    It is not review for the Recipe, rather how I mismanaged producing it.
    Natasha, I didn’t have onion on hand and also used cheap canned low quality tomato pasta sauce. One good thing is I didn’t combine pasta and the meat sauce. My Meat Sauce turned out sooo Sour, that I do not know how to remedy it. Can you please help me with your advice or shall I just throw my meat away ?! Thank you very much in advance.

    Reply

    • Natasha
      January 23, 2020

      Hi Elaine, the onion does help balance the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness. Thank you for sharing your experience using a poor quality sauce – I try to find the best quality one that I can if I am not using homemade. You would probably love our sauce form Spaghetti and meatballs which is homemade. At this point, probably the best course of action would be to add a little water and a little sugar to balance out the sour notes.

      Reply

      • Elaine STERINA
        January 23, 2020

        Is it too late to add separately caramelized onions to that meat sauce ?

        Thank you very much, Natasha.

        Reply

        • Natashas Kitchen
          January 24, 2020

          You are welcome to add it by preference but it may not infuse as much flavor as cooking into the sauce form the start.

          Reply

  • Gal
    January 19, 2020

    First time I have ever left a review. It’s that good.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 20, 2020

      Awww that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me. I’m all smiles!

      Reply

  • Sarah B
    October 2, 2019

    Made this recipe for dinner and it was great. I added some chopped celery to it and it turned out awesome. So cheap and easy to make! Next time I will double the recipe!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 2, 2019

      That’s so great, Sarah! Thank you for that awesome feedback!

      Reply

  • Patricia A. Garcia
    September 8, 2019

    I can’t imagine why the 1/2 tsp. of cumin…Italians do not use cumin, especially in their spaghetti sauce….now, if this was chili mac!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      September 8, 2019

      Hi Patricia, it’s my sister’s own little twist on the meat sauce and I hope you give it a try. It’s quite good!

      Reply

  • Vicki
    June 10, 2019

    This looks amazing. I woukd like to start using a Dutch Oven to make sauce as shown in your photos. Do You recommend heating olive oil in the Dutch Oven before putting in the meat? Can’t wait to make it! I really enjoy your recipes and videos. Keep up the great work to helping moms look like super stars in the kitchen! Vicki

    Reply

    • Natasha
      June 10, 2019

      Hi Vicki, the meat has enough fat that it releases and doesn’t require extra but you can add it if you prefer to add a little more or if you are using very lean ground beef.

      Reply

  • Brian
    March 25, 2019

    I’ve made this and I usually add a step using an immersion blender for a few minutes after it is cooked. That turns it into a very smooth meat sauce that can be used on pizzas and lasagne. I also use it with fresh made pork/beef meatballs, often with sliced mushrooms.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 25, 2019

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it! & thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • AGNESS Female CHEWE
    March 18, 2019

    Hey Natasha do you have an easy beef stew recipe served with rice please

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 18, 2019

      Hi Agness, we have this aweomse beef stew recipe here. This stew is more of a stew soup so I think it would go perectly over some rice!

      Reply

  • Ellen M.
    March 9, 2019

    Quick question – do you drain the ground beef after browning it, or does using 15% fat ground beef make that step unnecessary? Can’t wait to make this!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 9, 2019

      Hi Ellen! We did not need to drain the meat.

      Reply

  • Mike
    March 9, 2019

    Gidday Natasha, I enjoy your cooking blog. Rather than adding a jar of commercial sauce to make the spaghetti sauce’s easy to create your own. After cooking the mince ( i use pork mince) sautee the onion and garlic in olive oil and add some chopped celery and grated carrot. Grated zucchini is good too.Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, plus some milk and two anchovies. Let this simmer a while and add seasoningThis is a tasty meat sauce and very healthy.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 9, 2019

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me.

      Reply

  • Hazel
    March 8, 2019

    I have long made a version of this type sauce and I add some ground or chopped mild Italian sausage for greater flavor.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 8, 2019

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Thomas
    March 7, 2019

    Here’s the thing; if you can make a great italian style meat sauce, you can use it as a starter for about anything italian you wish to make. Use it to make lasagna, skillet lasagna with bow tie pasta, spaghetti, actually any pasta dish requiring a meat sauce will do. Let’s call it a nice frozen quick supper week-night shortcut. Thanks, Natasha.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 7, 2019

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Thomas!

      Reply

    • Natasha
      March 7, 2019

      Hi Thomas, this definitely is a shortcut which is always great on busy weeknights :).

      Reply

  • Leslie
    March 6, 2019

    Is Sam’s choice sauce you have in the picture better than Prego traditional sauce ?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      March 7, 2019

      Hi Leslie, honestly we loved them equally in flavor but the Sam’s choice one does seem to have a better list of ingredients (i.e. olive oil instead of canola oil). If you have a favorite marinara sauce, try that! It works with a variety of different brands. I hope you love the meat sauce! 🙂

      Reply

  • Barb
    March 6, 2019

    I am going to make this, because it sounds so yummy. BUT….I have to ask you: 3 minutes prep time???? In what universe? Prep times in ALL online recipes are noted as crazily short, but 3 minutes is just silly. How about giving a prep time where nothing is already trimmed, washed, or chopped? Now, THAT would be realistic!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      March 7, 2019

      Hi Barb, the only thing that needs to be “prepped” here is to chop and onion and mince garlic and 3 minutes seemed reasonable for that. The rest of the recipe is done over the stove and is counted into the cooking time. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  • Russ
    March 6, 2019

    I have made a similar recipe for years and love it. It also calls for browning the meat before adding the onions, which strikes me as odd. Wouldn’t it be better to slightly carmelize the onions first? Maybe you could enlighten me as to why it is done this way.

    Reply

    • Natasha
      March 6, 2019

      Hi Russ, it isn’t necessary in this recipe because the sauce simmers for awhile afterwards and the onions pretty much disappear into the sauce.

      Reply

  • Susan P
    March 6, 2019

    Did you add small tomatoes to the sauce? I didn’t see them listed in the ingredients, but they are in the sauce.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 6, 2019

      Hi Susan! Those were actually apart of the marinara pasta sauce!

      Reply

  • Becky Hardin
    March 6, 2019

    Love how easy this is and how delicious it is!! Nothing better then a good meat sauce recipe that everyone loves.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 6, 2019

      I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing your great review, Becky!

      Reply

      • Roselyn
        August 19, 2020

        Hallo Natasha,
        It is absolutely the best spaghetti meat sauce recipe ever. I made it and it was really a hit. We all loved this recipe. It is very easy, simple and super tasty. The cumin gives a very apart flavor that you really love it..I will keep this recipe forever. I really enjoy and love to follow your vlog. I am so happy that i saw your website.

        Reply

        • Natasha's Kitchen
          August 19, 2020

          So wonderful to hear that, Roselyn. Thank you so much for sharing your great experience with us!

          Reply

      • Julie
        September 4, 2021

        Can you add cream at the end?

        Reply

        • Natashas Kitchen
          September 4, 2021

          Hi Julie, I haven’t added that myself to advise. If you’re looking to make it more like a creamy sauce and adding that, I’d love to know how you like that.

          Reply

  • Rachael Yerkes
    March 6, 2019

    Best pasta night dinner! I love this sauce!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 6, 2019

      That’s so awesome, Rachael! I’m so happy you enjoyed that!

      Reply

  • Alina
    March 6, 2019

    Awesome recipe like always. I made it last night but I didn’t have beef so I used ground chicken it was yummy too. My kids loved it. Thanks for ur hard work!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 6, 2019

      I’m so happy you all enjoyed that! Thank you for that awesome review!

      Reply

  • Alli
    March 6, 2019

    We loved this, it was so easy and tasty and my kids adored this, absolutely a keeper!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 6, 2019

      Sounds like you found a new family favorite! I’m so happy you all enjoyed that, Alli!

      Reply

  • Katerina @ diethood .com
    March 6, 2019

    My family would LOVE this!! It looks SO good!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 6, 2019

      It is so perfect for a family dinner! Thank you for that great review, Katerina!

      Reply

  • Michelle F
    March 5, 2019

    Saw this pop up on my Instagram today and made it the same night. So easy and delicious! My husband had seconds, then thirds. Your recipes consistently come out so successfully, I never have to worry about having a backup plan when getting dinner on the table.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 5, 2019

      That’s just awesome!! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Michelle 🙂

      Reply

  • Suzy
    March 5, 2019

    The whole family loved this!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      March 5, 2019

      Hi Suzy, I am so happy to hear that!! Thank you for the awesome review!

      Reply

  • Lena
    March 5, 2019

    Looks so amazing! Would u b able to make a freezer friendly category! I’m going back to work would b sooo helpful to know exact which ones I could make ahead! Love your site!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 5, 2019

      Thank you for that suggestion, Lena!

      Reply

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