When I think back to my school days, one of the fondest memories is the comforting aroma of spaghetti and meat sauce wafting through the cafeteria. It was a dish that brought everyone together, filling our bellies and warming our hearts. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this classic School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce recipe. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can recreate this nostalgic dish in your own kitchen. So, grab your apron and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce recipe is not just a walk down memory lane; it’s a delicious meal that is quick to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of lean ground beef, aromatic herbs, and hearty tomatoes creates a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it for a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or even as a potluck dish. Once you taste it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 lbs lean ground beef
2 tbsp dried minced onions
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 (28-oz) can whole tomatoes, undrained
1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
2 cups water
4 tsp dried basil
4 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp dried marjoram
1 tsp dried thyme
1 lb spaghetti, cooked

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools at your disposal:

Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti.
Skillet or saucepan: For cooking the meat sauce.
Wooden spoon: To stir the sauce and prevent sticking.
Measuring spoons: For accurate measurement of spices.
Colander: To drain the cooked spaghetti.

How to Prepare School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt and the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or saucepan, add the lean ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

Stir in the dried minced onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt into the browned beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Add the undrained whole tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Use the wooden spoon to break the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Add Water and Herbs

Pour in the 2 cups of water and then add the dried basil, oregano, marjoram, and thyme. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, hearty sauce.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, toss it with the cooked spaghetti or serve it over the spaghetti on individual plates. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

If You’re Out Of…

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some substitutions to keep your dish on track:

Lean ground beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Dried minced onions: Use fresh chopped onions, about 1 medium onion.
Whole tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used for a smoother sauce.
Spaghetti: Any pasta shape will work—try penne or rigatoni for a fun twist!

If You’re Curious

Did you know that spaghetti and meat sauce has roots in Italian cuisine? While the versions may vary, the essence of combining pasta with a rich sauce has been loved for generations. This School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce brings that traditional essence to a comforting, family-friendly meal.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This recipe is perfect for making in bulk and freezing for later! Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Pair it with fresh spaghetti, and you have a quick and satisfying meal!

Common Qs About School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute. Generally, you’ll want to use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. So, for this recipe, use 12 tsp of fresh herbs.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the sauce. The flavors will still be delicious!

What can I serve with spaghetti and meat sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top!

Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes! This sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, and it will taste even better as the flavors have had time to develop.

If you’re looking to expand your culinary repertoire, consider trying these delicious recipes:

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this dish is sure to be a hit. Feel free to save it in your recipe collection for those times when you crave a taste of nostalgia.

Cooking should be fun and fulfilling, so embrace the joy of making this School Cafeteria Spaghetti & Meat Sauce and create new memories around the dinner table!

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