Indulge in a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef chunks with al dente spaghetti, all enveloped in a rich and savory sauce. This Savory Beef Spaghetti is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Easy to prepare and immensely satisfying, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- For the Spaghetti:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- Water for boiling
- Salt for boiling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Season the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the beef stew meat with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Sear the Beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Bell Pepper: Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pepper softens.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Return the seared beef to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Cook Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain: Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Mix Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss well to ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated with the savory sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Savory Beef Spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Beef Selection: For a more tender result, use beef cuts suitable for stewing, such as chuck or round.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of black pepper and paprika to suit your preferred spice level.
Variations
Spicy Beef Spaghetti:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Creamy Beef Spaghetti:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a richer, creamier texture.
Herb-Infused Beef Spaghetti:
- Add a handful of fresh basil or thyme leaves to the sauce to infuse it with fresh herb flavors.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Even Searing: Make sure the beef is spread out evenly in the skillet and not crowded. This ensures even searing and prevents steaming.
- Simmer Gently: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to allow the beef to become tender without overcooking it.
- Flavor Balance: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair the Savory Beef Spaghetti with a crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with homemade garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the robust flavors of this dish.
This Savory Beef Spaghetti is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With tender beef, a rich and savory sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade goodness with every bite.
