Ingredients

2 lbs extra lean ground beef or 2 lbs bulk Italian sausage
3 medium chopped onions
1 large green bell pepper ( chopped ( 1-1/2 cups )
6 garlic cloves ( finely chopped )
29 ounces canned diced tomatoes ( not drained )
29 ounces tomato sauce
12 ounces tomato paste
2 tablespoons dried basil leaves
1 tablespoon oregano leaves
1 tablespoon sugar ( or Splenda )
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Italian Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of ground beef or Italian sausage with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste make for a rich and hearty sauce that is the perfect complement to spaghetti. The addition of onions, garlic, and green bell peppers give the dish a nice crunch and provide added nutrition. This recipe takes only minutes to make and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a family, Italian Spaghetti Meat Sauce is sure to be a hit.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, bring 4-6 quarts of water to a boil. Add salt to taste.
2.Add spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
3.In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or Italian sausage, onions, and green pepper. Stir occasionally, until vegetables are tender and meat is browned and crumbled.
4.Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5.Add diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let simmer for 10-20 minutes.
6.Drain spaghetti and return to the pot. Add meat sauce, stir to combine, and heat through. Serve immediately.

PROS

Quick and easy to make, this Italian Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a great option for a weeknight dinner.

The combination of meat and veggies makes it a filling and satisfying meal.

CONS

This recipe can be high in sodium due to the canned tomato products and added salt.
Be sure to use low-sodium or no-salt-added options when possible.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Tomato-based pasta sauces are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that is believed to help prevent certain types of cancer and protect against the damage of free radicals.
The garlic in this recipe has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties as well.

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