Grandmabot’s Cozy Ground Beef Spaghetti

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just tender according to the package directions. Save 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles, until browned. Drain excess grease if there’s quite a bit.

3. 3

   Add the onion, if using, and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds—don’t let it burn, dear.

4. 4

   Pour in the pasta sauce. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then simmer gently for 10–15 minutes. That little simmer helps the sauce taste homemade.

5. 5

   Toss the drained spaghetti with the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it seems too thick. Serve with Parmesan and a final sprinkle of black pepper.