Homemade Garlic Bread with Hearty Spaghetti Meat Sauce

Short Description

Homemade Garlic Bread with Hearty Spaghetti Meat Sauce brings together two classic comforts: crisp, buttery herb-garlic bread and a rich, savory beef tomato sauce. Whether served as a side or a complete meal with pasta, this pairing makes pasta night feel both familiar and elevated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This combination is a time-tested favorite, perfect for casual weeknights or laid-back gatherings. The garlic bread is golden and crunchy with a flavorful herb butter spread, while the meat sauce is thick, satisfying, and brimming with Italian spices. The two complement each other effortlessly—dip, spread, or spoon it over pasta for a deeply comforting experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Garlic Bread:

• French bread, halved
• unsalted butter, softened
• garlic powder
• dried oregano
• dried parsley
• salt
• grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Spaghetti Meat Sauce:

• olive oil
• ground beef
• onion, chopped
• garlic, minced
• crushed tomatoes
• tomato paste
• sugar
• Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper to taste
• cooked spaghetti noodles (optional for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Garlic Bread:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic powder, oregano, parsley, salt, and Parmesan if using.
   Spread the mixture evenly over both halves of the French bread.
   Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Slice and set aside.
2. Make the Spaghetti Meat Sauce:
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
   Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
3. Serve:
   Serve the garlic bread alongside the meat sauce as a dipping component, or ladle the sauce generously over cooked spaghetti noodles for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 490 kcal

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone before baking for a gooey cheese topping.
• Spicy Meat Sauce: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onion for added depth and nutrition.
• Turkey Option: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner version.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried herbs for a brighter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover garlic bread wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
The meat sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought garlic bread instead?

Yes, but homemade garlic butter gives you better control over flavor and freshness.

Can I prepare the meat sauce in advance?

Absolutely. It stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

What type of bread is best for garlic bread?

A fresh, crusty French loaf or Italian bread works best. Avoid overly soft sandwich loaves.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, finely minced fresh garlic can be used for a stronger flavor—sauté it briefly in the butter before spreading.

Is it necessary to add sugar to the sauce?

The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. It can be reduced or omitted based on taste.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

Spaghetti is traditional, but it pairs well with penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.

Can I make the garlic bread gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free loaf and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I keep garlic bread from becoming soggy?

Bake it uncovered and avoid applying the butter mixture too early—spread it right before baking.

Is the Parmesan necessary in the garlic butter?

It’s optional but adds a nice savory depth. You can omit or replace it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Can I double the sauce recipe?

Yes, it scales well. Simply double all ingredients and adjust simmering time as needed for thickness.

Conclusion

Homemade Garlic Bread with Hearty Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a beloved classic that never fails to satisfy. Whether served as a simple dipping combo or as the centerpiece of a pasta dinner, this duo delivers bold flavor, rich textures, and true comfort in every bite. Ideal for casual family meals or cozy gatherings, it’s a timeless recipe worth revisiting again and again.

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