Step 1: Prepare the sauce

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add garlic

• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the meat

• Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Mix in tomatoes and spices

• Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 5: Boil the Water Add the Spaghetti

• Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt.
• Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

• Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente.
• Taste a strand to check for doneness, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.