Camper'S Fare Skillet Spaghetti
Camper's Fare Skillet Spaghetti is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for camping or quick weeknight dinners. It combines savory ground beef with tangy tomatoes, seasoned with chili powder and brown sugar, all simmered with spaghetti to create a comforting, one-pot meal that satisfies the entire family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet.
- Add salt and pepper to the hamburger.
- Pour off the excess fat from the skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes, water, diced onion, brown sugar, and chili powder to the hamburger.
- Cook until the mixture is thickened, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground beef with higher fat content. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the hamburger for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the chili powder for spiciness according to your taste. Adding a touch of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami flavor. You can also toss in some vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Camper's Fare Skillet Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with an Eight Layer Salad for a refreshing contrast. Grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful finish. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a slice of Poor Man Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Camper'S Fare Skillet Spaghetti contains roughly 996 calories, with 3g protein, 248g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2298mg per serving (100% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute elbow spaghetti with any short pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, ensuring it cooks until al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of chili powder or add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Additionally, incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce would enhance the spiciness to your liking.
Can I freeze the leftover skillet spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover skillet spaghetti. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).