Grandma’s Skillet Spaghetti – A Classic, Hearty Italian-American Favorite
There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about a skillet full of homemade spaghetti with meat sauce. This one-skillet wonder, lovingly passed down through generations, brings together rich tomato flavor, perfectly seasoned ground chuck, and tender pasta in a soul-satisfying meal that fills both the stomach and the heart.
Grandma’s Skillet Spaghetti is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition. The aroma of garlic, onions, green peppers, and slow-simmered Italian herbs makes any kitchen feel like home. Ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend meal prep, or family gatherings, this dish is a go-to for any occasion where comfort and flavor matter most.
Why This Skillet Spaghetti Will Be Your New Favorite Dinner
✔️ One-skillet meal – Easy prep, easy cleanup
✔️ Rich, slow-cooked flavor – Layers of taste from herbs, tomatoes, and aromatics
✔️ Versatile and customizable – Swap proteins or pasta varieties easily
✔️ Hearty and filling – A complete meal that satisfies every appetite
✔️ Even better the next day – Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients for the Perfect Skillet Spaghetti
Main Ingredients:
- 907g ground chuck (2 lbs) – Rich, juicy, and flavorful base
- 400g diced tomatoes (1 can) – Adds texture and brightness
- 400g crushed tomatoes (1 can) – Provides depth and thickness
- 800g tomato sauce (2 cans) – Smooth and savory foundation
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and depth of flavor
- 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced – Essential for aroma and taste
- 1 large onion, diced – Sweetens and builds flavor base
- 1 green pepper, diced – Adds a fresh, peppery edge
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley (dried or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- (Optional: ¼ tsp red chili flakes for heat)
Pasta:
- 400g spaghetti (about 14 oz) – Cooked al dente and tossed with sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Skillet Spaghetti
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In an extra-large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and green pepper, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute or two, just until fragrant and lightly golden.
2. Brown the Ground Chuck
Add the ground chuck to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up the meat and cook until fully browned, with no pink remaining. Once cooked, drain excess grease carefully for a cleaner, richer sauce.
3. Build the Flavorful Sauce
Return the skillet to medium heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, basil, oregano, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Let It Simmer Low and Slow
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmer allows the flavors to fully develop, thickens the sauce, and enhances the aroma.
5. Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside. Do not overcook, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
6. Combine and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated in that rich, herb-infused tomato sauce. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Spaghetti
- Don’t rush the simmer – The slow cooking process deepens the flavor dramatically.
- Add a parmesan rind during the simmer for extra umami richness (remove before serving).
- Use fresh herbs if available – especially parsley and basil – for brighter flavor.
- Chili flakes can add a gentle kick for those who love heat.
- Double the sauce and freeze half for a ready-made pasta night.
Delicious Variations
Protein Swaps:
- Use ground turkey, Italian sausage, or plant-based crumbles in place of ground chuck.
Pasta Alternatives:
- Try penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine for a twist on tradition.
Vegetable Boost:
- Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
- Reheat: Add a splash of water or tomato sauce to loosen the pasta before warming up.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma’s Skillet Spaghetti with:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- A fresh Caesar or garden salad
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
It’s a complete, hearty meal made with love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Just peel and dice about 6–8 ripe tomatoes, and blend to replace canned versions.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and confirm that all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, it contains no cheese or milk. Just be sure your spaghetti is dairy-free if using store-bought flavored varieties.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! The sauce tastes even better the next day. Store it separately from pasta if making ahead.
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~28g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~10g
Estimates vary depending on ingredients used and portion sizes.
A Dish That Stands the Test of Time
Grandma’s Skillet Spaghetti is more than just food—it’s a memory in every bite. With simple ingredients and deep, developed flavors, this dish proves that the best meals are those made with care and shared with loved ones. If you’re craving comfort, connection, and a dinner that never fails, this recipe is it.