Greek Spaghetti
Greek Spaghetti is a comforting dish featuring tender pasta combined with a rich, spiced beef and tomato sauce. Flavored with cinnamon, garlic, and butter, it offers a delightful blend of savory and warm aromatic notes, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in butter for about 10 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, cinnamon, and chopped garlic to the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add 1 cup of water to the mixture.
- Simmer over low heat for 45 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti.
- Serve the spaghetti topped with the meat sauce and grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms as a meat replacement. You can also adjust the level of garlic based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Greek spaghetti with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese on top, such as feta or Parmesan. A side of garlic bread or a fresh Greek salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For more Mediterranean recipes, consider serving it alongside stuffed eggplants for a complete meal.
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, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Spaghetti contains roughly 809 calories, with 28g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1151mg per serving (50% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cook the spaghetti fresh when you're ready to serve to ensure it stays perfectly al dente.
What can I use instead of spaghetti?
If you're looking for a different pasta option, try using penne or fusilli. For a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free spaghetti or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini or squash.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat to the sauce, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance, and taste as you go to find the right balance.
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).