Auntie'S Spaghetti
A flavorful and hearty spaghetti sauce combining ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of savory and sweet ingredients like grape jelly and chili sauce. This dish offers a unique twist with tangy and spicy notes, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings that enjoy rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground round and chopped onion in a skillet; pour off the grease or blot with paper towels.
- Add the canned tomatoes, basil, oregano, chili sauce, grape jelly, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper or hot sauce to the meat.
- Cook the mixture until it is warm and heated through.
- Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage. If you're out of grape jelly, you can substitute with apricot preserves or even a touch of honey. To enhance the sauce, add minced garlic or bell peppers. Adjust the heat with more hot sauce if desired. This recipe is versatile and can easily adapt to various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti sauce over your choice of pasta, but it pairs especially well with traditional spaghetti. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad and garlic bread. It also makes a great filling for baked ziti or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the sauce's consistency. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Auntie'S Spaghetti contains roughly 366 calories, with 37g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1162mg per serving (51% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spaghetti sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving. Making it in advance can help the flavors meld together beautifully. Many find that it tastes even better the next day!
What can I use instead of ground round?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use a plant-based meat substitute for vegan recipes. Additionally, ground pork or lamb can offer a different flavor profile. Just ensure any alternative is cooked thoroughly before adding to the dish.
How spicy is this sauce?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The original recipe calls for a dash of pepper or hot sauce, which provides a mild kick. If you prefer it spicier, increase the amount of hot sauce or add red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find your ideal heat!
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).