Spaghetti with Braised Beef and Tomato Sauce

Every time I make this Spaghetti with Braised Beef and Tomato Sauce, it brings back memories of cozy family dinners at my grandmother’s house. The rich aroma wafting through the kitchen would fill the air, and all I could think about was how comforting and delicious it would be to sit around the table, sharing stories and laughter with loved ones. I know once you try this recipe, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort! There’s something truly special about a hearty pasta dish—it embraces you like a warm hug on a chilly night.

Now, let me take you on a journey as we prepare this delightful dish together. Cooking can be such a wonderful experience, and with this recipe, I want you to feel relaxed and excited. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive in!

How to make Spaghetti with Braised Beef and Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 400g spaghetti – This is the heart of our dish. You can use any pasta you like, but spaghetti holds the sauce beautifully.
  • 300g beef cubes – I prefer tender cuts like chuck or brisket for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
  • 2 cups tomato sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a fresh taste!
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped – This adds a lovely sweetness as it cooks down.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because who can say no to garlic? It just brings everything together!
  • 1 red chili, sliced (optional) – If you like a little heat, this is the perfect addition.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – A staple in my kitchen, adding richness and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that creamy, cheesy finish. You can never have too much cheese!
  • Fresh parsley, chopped – This adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1/2 cup beef stock or water – To keep our sauce nice and rich.

Cooking Steps:

  1. Boil the spaghetti: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then toss in the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. This will help prevent sticking.

  2. Sear the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the beef cubes. Sear them until they’re browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor! Once done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.

  3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion first and sauté until translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced red chili, if using, and cook until fragrant, for about another minute.

  4. Simmer the sauce: Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the seared beef back to the skillet. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef stock, stirring to combine. Let this come to a gentle simmer. I usually cover it and let it cook on low heat for 30-45 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally, just to keep everything happy. Trust me; your kitchen will smell divine during this time!

  5. Combine with pasta: Once the beef is tender and the sauce is thickened, toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet. Gently stir it to coat every piece of pasta with that delicious sauce. Make sure each spaghetti strand is enveloped in that braised beef goodness!

  6. Serve it up: Divide the pasta into bowls, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top. There’s nothing quite like serving a warm, comforting meal right from your stovetop!

Why I Love Making This Dish:

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family gatherings and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. The process of cooking it can be a bit involved, but it’s always worth it when I see everyone around the table, enjoying the fruits of my labor. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s delicious and looks beautiful? It’s a great conversation starter, too!

What You’ll Need:

For this recipe, you only need a few special tools:

  • A large pot for boiling the spaghetti.
  • A large skillet for the sauce and beef.
  • A good cutting board and sharp knife for chopping.
  • A wooden spoon for stirring.
  • A colander for draining the spaghetti.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. First, preheat your stove by bringing water to a boil for the spaghetti; this is key for perfectly cooked pasta!
  2. Brown the beef to lock in that mouthwatering flavor; don’t skip this step.
  3. Sauté your onions until they’re soft and sweet—they’ll be your flavor base.
  4. Add the garlic and chili for aromatic joy.
  5. Simmer everything together, allowing those flavors to develop fully.
  6. Toss in your spaghetti, coating it thoroughly so every bite is bursting with flavor.
  7. Serve immediately, and watch it disappear!

Tips for Perfect Results:

  • If you want a crispy beef exterior, make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef.
  • For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of red wine as it simmers. It adds such depth!
  • Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will be.

Serving Suggestions and Sides:

I love to serve this dish with a simple green salad and a loaf of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also pair it with garlic bread—it’s a family favorite! Sometimes, I’ll whip up some roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious side.

Leftovers:

Ah, if you have any leftovers—that’s one of the best parts of this dish! After dinner, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef stock or water to keep everything moist. It’s almost like it tastes better the next day!

FAQ Section:

Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is my favorite for this beefy sauce, feel free to use your preferred pasta. Penne or fettuccine would work beautifully too!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and I often do! You can prepare the beef sauce a day in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving with freshly cooked pasta.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Without a doubt! Kids love the flavors of pasta and sauce. If your children are sensitive to spice, just skip the chili.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, and it will be just as delicious!

Conclusion:

This Spaghetti with Braised Beef and Tomato Sauce has quickly become a favorite in my home, bringing warmth and joy every time I make it. I’m so excited for you to try it! The wonderful smells, the rich flavors, and the happy faces around the dinner table will fill your heart with joy. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you—your family just might ask for seconds! So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create something beautiful together. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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