Charlo'S Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce enriched with ground beef, vegetables, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and season to taste.
- Saute chopped onions and bell pepper in butter until tender.
- Combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed garlic, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the sauce to thicken, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference. This sauce can also be used in dishes like Italian Meatloaf for a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over cooked pasta, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting dish, consider using it in Lasagna With A Twist for a delightful family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the spaghetti sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlo'S Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 252 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 878mg per serving (38% 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 meat for this sauce?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as lighter alternatives. If you're looking for a richer flavor, consider using pork sausage. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder for an extra kick.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
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).