Easy Spaghetti
Easy Spaghetti is a comforting dish with a rich, meaty sauce that pairs perfectly with al dente pasta. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful experience that appeals to both families and busy individuals looking for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz.) pkg. spaghetti ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 4 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, chopped ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped parsley ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 2 1/4 c. tomato juice ⓘ
- 1 can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute onion, garlic, and parsley in olive oil until soft.
- Add ground beef and seasonings; brown lightly.
- Blend in remaining ingredients and simmer for approximately 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Adjust the spices to your taste and try incorporating fresh herbs for an aromatic touch. This dish is a classic in Italian recipes, making it versatile for various palates.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and extra chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. It pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Italian Style Meat Loaf for a hearty dinner or enjoy it as a comforting dish on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out, and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months, reheating directly from the freezer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Spaghetti contains roughly 404 calories, with 15g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (169% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (124% of the Daily Value), and calcium (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg 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 use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take slightly longer to become tender. It complements the sauce well and makes the dish a bit healthier.
What can I add to make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Another option is to incorporate a small amount of grated cheese, which will melt and help achieve a thicker consistency. Experiment with these methods to find your perfect sauce texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the spaghetti and reheat the sauce on the stovetop. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall 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).