Pasta with meat sauce is a classic Italian dish that never fails to satisfy. The combination of tender pasta, delicious meat sauce, and melted cheese serves to create a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe takes all the elements of a traditional pasta dish and elevates them to new heights.

Table of Contents
- What is Pasta with Meat Sauce?
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients
- How to Make Pasta with Meat Sauce
- Recipe Tips
- Substitutions and Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- More Recipes You'll Enjoy
- Recipe Card
- Super Easy Pasta with Meat Sauce (Ready in Under 30 Mins!)
- Comments
What’s best is that this is the perfect meal for weeknights when you’re too busy to cook something elaborate. It’s quick, easy, convenient, and packed with flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser that everyone in the family will absolutely love!
The meat sauce is made with a blend of ground beef, pasta sauce, ketchup, and delicious seasonings simmered in a rich tomato sauce until it becomes thick and flavorful.
The pasta is cooked to al dente perfection which guarantees an amazing texture that holds up well to the delicious meat sauce. Plus, a generous amount of cheese is sprinkled over hot pasta. It seriously proves to be delightful with every bite!
What is Pasta with Meat Sauce?
Pasta with meat sauce is a classic Italian dish that consists of cooked pasta topped with meat sauce and melted cheese. The meat sauce is typically made with ground beef or a combination of beef and pork, along with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and various herbs and spices.
The dish is then finished off with a generous amount of melted cheese, such as parmesan cheese or mozzarella. It’s also often referred to as bolognese sauce or homemade spaghetti meat sauce.
What’s best about this dish is its rich and hearty flavor. The combination of the savory meat sauce and the melted cheese creates a truly satisfying taste and experience while meat sauce adds both complexity and depth to the dish.
Another reason why pasta with meat sauce and cheese is loved by many is its versatility. It can be easily customized to suit individual preferences by adding extra ingredients such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a touch of red wine. It can also be served with different types of pasta, such as spaghetti, angel hair, penne, or rigatoni, depending on personal preference.
This pasta with meat sauce and cheese is truly a comforting dish that is loved by many for its rich flavors, cheese, and versatility. It is a classic comfort food that brings people together and is enjoyed by young and old alike and I’m sure you’re going to love it.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious: This recipe combines the rich flavors of savory meat sauce and creamy cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering pasta dish that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile: You can customize this recipe to your liking by using your favorite type of meat, such as ground beef, turkey, or even Italian sausage. This allows you to tailor the dish to suit your personal taste preferences.
Easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes. It requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it a perfect go-to option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or feeding a large family, this pasta with meat sauce and cheese is guaranteed to be a success. The combination of hearty meat sauce and melted cheese is a universally loved flavor combination.
Comforting: This dish offers a comforting and satisfying meal experience. The warm pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese work to create a delightful dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Key Ingredients
All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this spaghetti meat sauce recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:
- Angel Hair: We will be needing angel hair (or any kind of pasta) to make this dish. It will provide a delicious and satisfying base for the dish.
- Ground beef: We will also need some ground beef when making this dish. It will add a savory and meaty flavor to the pasta.
- Olive oil: Next, we will be using some olive oil as it will help to cook and sauté all the ingredients.
- Salt: We will also need to add some salt to this dish. It will enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Garlic salt: We will need garlic salt to use when making this dish. It will add a rich and aromatic flavor to the pasta.
- Vegeta: We will also need some Vegeta. It will provide a savory and umami taste.
- Ground pepper: Remember to use some ground black pepper when making this dish. It will add a subtle heat and spiciness to our pasta with meat sauce.
- Pizza sauce: We will also be needing some pizza sauce. It will serve to add a tangy flavor to the dish and be the base of our sauce. Alternatively, you can also use marinara sauce or homemade spaghetti sauce.
- Ketchup: Next, we will be adding some ketchup to the pasta. It will serve to add a touch of sweetness and tanginess and is a great replacement for tomato paste.
- Mozzarella cheese: You’ll also need some mozzarella cheese. It’ll melt and create a rich and creamy texture.
- Chives (as a topping): We will need some chives to use as a topping. It’ll add a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
How to Make Pasta with Meat Sauce
Making this incredible pasta with meat sauce and cheese is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:
How to Prep Ingredients
Begin by grinding the meat and shredding the cheese then place the shredded cheese on your countertop and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Next, allow the cheese to come to room temperature, as it will melt more easily that way.
While the cheese is warming up, cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Start cooking the meat sauce around the same time.
How to Cook Meat Sauce
To cook the meat, heat a large skillet and add a bit of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef. Cook the beef on high heat, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid evaporates and the meat starts to sizzle.
Once the liquid has evaporated, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the spices: salt, garlic salt, Vegeta, and ground pepper. Mix everything well and let the meat continue to cook until it browns, which should take about 5 minutes.
Stir in the pizza sauce and ketchup into the meat mixture. Cook on low heat until you are ready to top the pasta with the sauce. This will keep the meat sauce hot until you are ready to use it.
How to Assemble Pasta with Meat Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it with hot water. This will prevent the pasta from becoming slimy. Place the cooked pasta into a bowl that has a lid.
Top the pasta with the hot meat sauce and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Close the lid tightly to trap the heat and allow the cheese to melt. Leave it for about 10 minutes to let the heat do its magic.
While the pasta is resting, you can prepare a cabbage and cucumber salad, which pairs well with this dish.
It is important to serve the pasta right away, as the cheese will be melted and the dish will be at its best. Any leftover pasta should be stored in the refrigerator.
This dish is also great for packing in lunch boxes, as it reheats well and still tastes delicious when reheated. Enjoy!
Pasta with Meat Sauce is ready to be served!
Recipe Tips
Prep the ingredients ahead of time: Before you start cooking, make sure to chop all the vegetables, grate the cheese, and measure out the spices. This will make the cooking process much smoother and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Use high-quality pasta: For the best results, use high-quality pasta that has a good texture and flavor. This will elevate the dish and make it more enjoyable to eat.
Cook the pasta al dente: To achieve the perfect texture, cook the pasta just until it is al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite to it when you take a bite. Overcooking the pasta will result in a mushy texture.
Brown the meat before adding the sauce: Browning the meat adds depth and flavor to the dish. Make sure to cook the meat until it is well-browned and has developed a crust. This will enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
This delicious pasta with meat sauce and cheese recipe is absolutely perfect as it is, but if you're looking to change things up, here are a few variation ideas you can try:
Creamy garlic: For a creamy twist on this classic, add a few cloves of minced garlic to the meat sauce and stir in a dollop of heavy cream before serving. The garlic adds a fragrant kick, while the cream adds richness and a velvety texture.
Spicy: To give this dish a spicy twist, add a teaspoon or two of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. The heat from the red pepper flakes will add depth and complexity to the dish, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Mushroom and basil: For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat and sauté a handful of sliced mushrooms with some minced garlic. Stir in some fresh basil leaves before serving to add a fresh and earthy flavor to the dish.
Sausage and spinach: Replace the ground meat with crumbled Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Sauté the sausage until browned and cooked through, then add in a handful of fresh spinach leaves and stir until wilted. The sausage adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor, while the spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients.
Cheese: Instead of serving the pasta with sauce on top, toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce and transfer it to a baking dish. Top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in the oven until the cheese has melted. The baked version adds a crispy texture to the dish, perfect for cheese lovers. Top with some oregano before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this pasta with meat sauce and cheese with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The garlic bread will compliment the flavors of the meat sauce and the salad will add a refreshing element to the dish.
- For a heartier meal, serve the pasta with meat sauce and cheese with a side of roasted vegetables. The roasted vegetables will add a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the meat sauce and cheese, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
- For a lighter option, serve the pasta with meat sauce and cheese with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach. The vegetables will add some freshness and a pop of color to the dish, while still keeping it light and healthy.
- If you’re looking to add some variety to the dish, serve it with a side of bruschetta. The crunchy bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic will add a burst of flavor and texture to the meal, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish.
- For a more delicious option, serve the pasta with meat sauce and cheese with a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy and buttery mashed potatoes will compliment the rich flavors of the meat sauce and cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer for this recipe. Spaghetti noodles, penne, fettuccine, macaroni, or rigatoni would all work well with the meat sauce and cheese.
Certainly! Ground beef is commonly used for meat sauce, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. You can even use a combination of meats for added flavor.
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like diced bell peppers, celery, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding the ground meat.
Yes, you can make the meat sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop and cook the pasta fresh. This will guarantee that the pasta is cooked to perfection.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
To store leftovers, first, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and make sure it is consumed within 3-4 days.
When reheating, you can either use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, transfer the leftovers to a saucepan and heat over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
If using the microwave, transfer the leftovers to a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
It is worth mentioning that while you can opt to freeze this pasta, it may affect the texture of the pasta and cheese. If you still want to freeze it, transfer the leftovers to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap. Make sure to label it with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
However, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may become mushy after freezing and reheating. It is best to consume the leftovers within a few days to maintain the quality of the dish.
Recipe Card
Super Easy Pasta with Meat Sauce (Ready in Under 30 Mins!)
Ingredients
- 1 lb. angel hair (or any kind pasta)
- 1 lbs. ground beef
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- ½ tbsp. sea salt
- 1 tsp. garlic salt
- ½ tsp. Vegeta
- ¼ tsp. ground pepper
- 14 oz. pizza sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 12 oz. mozzarella cheese
- Chives for topping/decorating
Instructions
How to Prep Ingredients for Pasta with Meat Sauce
- Begin by grinding the meat and shredding the cheese then place the shredded cheese on your countertop and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Next, allow the cheese to come to room temperature, as it will melt more easily that way.
- While the cheese is warming up, cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Start cooking the meat sauce around the same time.
How to Cook Meat Sauce
- To cook the meat, heat a large skillet and add a bit of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef. Cook the beef on high heat, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid evaporates and the meat starts to sizzle.
- Once the liquid has evaporated, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the spices: salt, garlic salt, Vegeta, and ground pepper. Mix everything well and let the meat continue to cook until it browns, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the pizza sauce and ketchup into the meat mixture. Cook on low heat until you are ready to top the pasta with the sauce. This will keep the meat sauce hot until you are ready to use it.
How to Assemble Pasta with Meat Sauce
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it with hot water. This will prevent the pasta from becoming slimy. Place the cooked pasta into a bowl that has a lid.
- Top the pasta with the hot meat sauce and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Close the lid tightly to trap the heat and allow the cheese to melt. Leave it for about 10 minutes to let the heat do its magic.
- While the pasta is resting, you can prepare a cabbage and cucumber salad, which pairs well with this dish.
- It is important to serve the pasta right away, as the cheese will be melted and the dish will be at its best. Any leftover pasta should be stored in the refrigerator.
- This dish is also great for packing in lunch boxes, as it reheats well and still tastes delicious when reheated. Enjoy!
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This recipe was originally posted on January 13, 2016 (original picture below), and updated for a better user experience. The post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure.
Veronika says
Can't wait to make it tomorrow, will definitely will let you how it turned out
Tanya says
Value, I can't wait to make it! This sounds and looks very delicious! Thank you for sharing!
valya'stasteofhome.com says
You are very welcome Tanya! I hope you like it as much as we do. Enjoy!
P.S Don't forget to let me know how it turned out for you and how you like it. Thanks 🙂