15 Minute Spaghetti Sauce
A quick and hearty spaghetti sauce with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and a smoky barbecue flavor, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and green peppers to the meat.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in barbecue sauce and condensed tomato soup.
- Simmer for 5 minutes or until heated through.
- Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Serve the meat sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs like oregano and basil. If you prefer a spicier sauce, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the taste. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option, and if you’re out of barbecue sauce, ketchup works as a decent alternative. This sauce is versatile and can be used in other dishes like Snappy Meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti sauce over al dente pasta for the best texture. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the dish well. For added richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. This hearty sauce also works wonderfully as a filling for baked dishes or as a topping for garlic bread. It pairs beautifully with Company Steak for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 15 Minute Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 479 calories, with 25g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a combination of diced mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based products, and ensure your barbecue sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time! Prepare it up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).