Florentine Spaghetti
Creamy spaghetti with ground beef and tomato sauce, complemented by cottage cheese for a rich, comforting meal suitable for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the spaghetti according to package directions.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Stir in the herb spiced mix, tomato paste, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve the meat sauce over cooked spaghetti and top with cottage cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the ground beef while browning. If you want a healthier twist, swap cottage cheese for ricotta or Greek yogurt. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. For extra vegetables, feel free to add chopped spinach or bell peppers to the meat sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Florentine Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the meal. For an Italian twist, pair it with a glass of red wine. This dish also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Italian Meat Casserole, creating a comforting and satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent the spaghetti from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florentine Spaghetti contains roughly 358 calories, with 28g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. At about 358 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the alternative pasta.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or crumbled tofu. Enhance the flavor with additional herbs and spices to compensate for the missing meat.
How can I 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 grated Parmesan cheese or a bit of tomato sauce for a richer consistency.
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).