Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of sugar (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
5. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning, if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
8. Serve the homemade spaghetti sauce over cooked pasta of your choice.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
10. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
11. Servings: Makes 4-6 servings