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Spaghetti with Jarred Sauce

The simplest pasta dinner there is. Jarred spaghetti sauce means the seasoning is already done for you — just heat, add meat if you have it, and serve.

Nut-FreeEgg-FreeDairy-Free Main Dish
Prep: 5 min Cook: 20 min Total: 25 min Servings: 4–6 Difficulty: Easy

Allergens: Contains Gluten (pasta). Check spaghetti sauce label for dairy.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pasta (spaghetti, penne, or whatever shape you have)
  • 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey (fresh or thawed)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Optional Extras

  • Garlic powder or fresh garlic
  • Italian seasoning or oregano
  • Salt and pepper
  • Shredded cheese on top
  • Red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Large skillet or pot (for sauce)
  • Colander or strainer
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Stirring spoon

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the diced onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the ground beef or turkey. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes.
  5. Pour in the entire jar of spaghetti sauce. Stir to combine. Let it simmer on low heat for 5–10 minutes while the pasta finishes.
  6. Serve the sauce over the drained pasta. Top with cheese if you have it.

Notes

  • No meat? Skip it entirely. The jarred sauce is a complete topping on its own.
  • Vegetarian version: Add a drained can of black beans or kidney beans to the sauce instead of meat for extra protein.
  • Ground turkey works the same as ground beef here. Cook it the same way.
  • Stretch it: This makes great leftovers. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • No spaghetti sauce? Use a can of tomato sauce plus a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of sugar.