German Spaghetti(A Very Old Family Recipe)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: German

A hearty, nostalgic German-inspired spaghetti dish featuring crispy bacon, savory tomato soup, and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. bacon
  • 3 cans tomato soup
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1/2 large green pepper
  • pepper
  • 1 lb. spaghetti

Instructions

  1. Dice and fry the bacon until crisp.
  2. Remove the bacon and fry the diced onion and green pepper in the bacon drippings.
  3. Remove as much bacon grease as you like, leaving some for flavor.
  4. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
  5. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the bacon, vegetables, and tomato soup, and simmer until heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try adding garlic or Italian herbs like oregano and basil to the sautéed onions and peppers. You can substitute the bacon with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of the drippings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this German Spaghetti with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch. It pairs beautifully with Spaghetti With Sausage for a hearty dinner option. For a more substantial meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pan and heat over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave the dish, covered, in short intervals, stirring occasionally to avoid drying out the spaghetti.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Spaghetti(A Very Old Family Recipe) contains roughly 328 calories, with 16g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value) and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. At about 328 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.

328 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.3g 33% DV
Total Fat 9g 12% DV
Carbs 46.1g 17% DV
Fiber 5.3g 19% DV
Sugar 4.1g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 271.9mg 12% DV
Potassium 386.1mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 15.3mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 24.9mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 112.2mg 100% DV
Calcium 32.3mg 2% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato soup?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 4-5 medium tomatoes, diced, can replace the canned soup. Simmer the tomatoes with some broth and seasonings until they break down, then mix with the spaghetti and other ingredients. This will give a fresher taste to your dish.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

If you're looking to cut calories, consider using a lower-fat tomato soup or making your own sauce from scratch. This way, you can control the amount of sugar and sodium.

Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, this dish can be frozen! Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if it seems dry.

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).

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