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My Kids' Favorite Spaghetti Sauce

In no way is this the only way to make spaghetti. In fact, my kids are pretty used to my commonly made and veggie-packed version. That's why this one is called my kid's favorite spaghetti sauce. While not as health conscious as other versions I make, it gives nostalgic, simple, and deeply underappreciated. I do personally love making larger batches of this and freezing part of it as a way to help out future Thursday night me who may not want to cook. 
Dried porcini powder is sort of a hack for adding in the meaty robust umami flavor we tend to associate with Bolognese sauce that's been cooking for hours. It isn't readily available in every single grocery store but it can ordered online and it really adds a lot so I feel like it is worth it.
Print Recipe
Servings: 5 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 6 oz can of tomato paste
  • 2 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb preferred ground meat (turkey, beef, etc.)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp beef base
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2-3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried porcini mushroom powder (optional but highly recommended)
  • 1 splash red wine (optional but highly recommended)

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a heavy bottomed skilled over medium heat. Add your meat and break it up and as it cooks down.
  2. Once meat is cooked completely, add your tomato paste and cook for 3-5 minutes scooting it around the pan
  3. Add tomato sauce, water, beef base and seasonings, and wine
  4. Allow to simmer covered over low heat for 15-20 minutes.
  5. At the very end, add your butter and a delightful sprinkle of grated parmesan to finish the sauce. I also like to add a sprinkle of fresh basil if I have it.
  6. Throw over your favorite cooked pasta and enjoy!