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Plate of Greek Spaghetti topped with ground beef and fresh herbs.

Greek Spaghetti

A cozy and quick pasta dish infused with Greek flavors, featuring ground meat, tomatoes, and warm spices for a comforting meal in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Use any pasta shape if spaghetti is unavailable.
  • 1 lb Ground beef (or ground turkey) Ground lamb can be used for a more traditional taste.
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Shallots can be a substitute if needed.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used instead.
  • 28 oz Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce Tomato paste is optional but enhances the flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste Optional, helps thicken the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Butter can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano Dried herbs work best for this recipe.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • 1 pinch Sugar Only if the tomatoes taste sharp.
  • optional Feta, Parmesan, chopped parsley Use as toppings for additional flavor.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Start the pasta water boiling. Salt it generously and cook the spaghetti, saving a little pasta water before draining.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a large pan, warm a splash of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens. Then add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up and cooking until browned. Spoon off excess grease if necessary.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and optional tomato paste. Add oregano, salt, pepper, and a small pinch of cinnamon. Start with less than you think; you can always add more.
  4. Let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
Combining
  1. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce or spoon the sauce on top. Finish with feta or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Cinnamon adds warmth; if unsure, start with a tiny pinch and adjust. Ground turkey and lamb are great alternatives for the meat. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance the dish's nutrition. Leftovers reheat well.