Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (6 ounce/170g) can tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) water
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in the pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Add ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, and water.
  5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour 30 minutes, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over cooked spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil (if desired).