Chuck'S Spaghetti Gravy
Chuck's Spaghetti Gravy is a hearty, savory sauce with bacon, pepperoni, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family meals and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; remove from skillet and set aside.
- Chop celery and cut pepperoni into sections.
- Add minced garlic and sauté in bacon drippings until celery is soft.
- Drain the bacon grease from the skillet.
- Pour 2 cans of Contadina puree into a large pot.
- Use one can of puree to measure and add water to the pot.
- Add seasonings such as oregano, sugar, and celery salt to taste.
- Gradually add seasonings as the gravy simmers.
- Crumble cooked bacon and add it to the gravy.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for a minimum of 3 hours.
- Add meatballs, sausage, or chicken as desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy. If you don't have Contadina puree, crushed tomatoes can be a good substitute. For extra freshness, toss in some chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with Easy Pork Parmigiana for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti gravy over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or rigatoni, and top with grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad complements this dish perfectly. For a complete Italian meal, consider pairing it with Hamburger-N-Spaghetti for a delightful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the gravy on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Freezing is an option too; it keeps well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chuck'S Spaghetti Gravy contains roughly 319 calories, with 17g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (125% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (92% of the Daily Value), and calcium (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 758mg per serving (33% 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 spaghetti gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! This gravy actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.
What kind of meat can I add to the gravy?
You can add various meats such as meatballs, sausage, or even chicken. Each option will enhance the flavor and heartiness of the dish. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
Is there a vegetarian version of this gravy?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and texture. Substitute vegetable broth for water to enhance the taste.
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).