This One Secret Ingredient Makes the Best Spaghetti Ever! PLUS Easy Garlic Bread

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb Ground Chuck (80% lean / 20% fat) (prefer 80/20 for flavor and juiciness)
• 2 can Tomato Sauce (15‑oz cans, plain or seasoned)
• 2 cup Water (helps thin the sauce and prevent burning)
• 1 lb Spaghetti (standard dry spaghetti)
• 2 packet Brown Gravy Mix (instant brown gravy mix, adds depth)
• 0.75 cup Mayonnaise (Duke's brand preferred, creates creamy spread)
• 2 clove Garlic (minced)
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (blend of dried herbs)
• 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• 1 loaf French Bread Loaf (cut lengthwise, about 12‑inch loaf)
• 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Chuck

   Heat the cast‑iron skillet over medium heat. Add the 1.5 lb of 80/20 ground chuck and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is nicely browned and no longer pink.

   Time: PT5M

2. Drain Excess Grease

   Tilt the skillet, push the meat to one side, and carefully pour off any excess grease into a heat‑proof container. Reduce heat to medium‑low.

   Time: PT2M

3. Add Tomato Sauce and Water

   Stir in the two cans of tomato sauce and the 2 cups of water. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

   Time: PT5M

4. Cook the Spaghetti

   Add the 1 lb of dry spaghetti to the simmering sauce. Stir to coat the noodles and prevent sticking. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente (about 8 minutes).

   Time: PT8M

5. Incorporate Brown Gravy Mix

   Sprinkle the two packets of brown gravy mix over the pasta‑sauce mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for another 12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a rich, beefy flavor.

   Time: PT12M

6. Prepare the Garlic‑Mayonnaise Spread

   While the sauce simmers, combine 3/4 cup mayonnaise, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan in a mixing bowl. Mix until smooth.

   Time: PT5M

7. Preheat the Oven

   Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you finish the spread.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 375°F

8. Assemble and Bake the Cheesy Garlic Bread

   Slice the French loaf lengthwise. Spread the mayo‑garlic mixture evenly over both halves. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake for 13 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the Parmesan is bubbly.

   Time: PT13M

   Temperature: 375°F

9. Serve

   Plate the hearty spaghetti, ladle extra sauce over the top, and serve with a hot slice of the cheesy garlic bread. Enjoy with a side of fresh greens if desired.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

560

Protein

27 g

Carbohydrates

71 g

Fat

21 g

Fiber

3 g