Aunt Zel'S Spaghetti
A flavorful and hearty spaghetti sauce featuring savory sausage, hamburger, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, sausage, garlic, and olive oil in a large skillet or pot.
- Drain the grease from the meat mixture.
- Add canned tomatoes and tomato paste to the meat.
- Using the tomato paste can, add three cans of water to the mixture.
- Stir in two teaspoons of brown sugar.
- Simmer the sauce for three hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the sauce's freshness; add them during the last half hour of simmering. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Zel's Spaghetti over al dente pasta, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread complements the meal beautifully. For a refreshing accompaniment, consider pairing with an Italian Market Salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Zel'S Spaghetti contains roughly 1288 calories, with 67g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (133% of the Daily Value), potassium (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1955mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. About 6-8 medium tomatoes will yield the equivalent of two cans. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding to the sauce. Fresh tomatoes will provide a vibrant flavor, especially if they're in season.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Aunt Zel's Spaghetti vegetarian, substitute the hamburger and sausage with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
What type of pasta is best to use?
Traditionally, spaghetti is the go-to pasta for this dish, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just ensure to cook the pasta al dente to hold up well against the hearty sauce.
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).