Homemade Spaghetti
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti dish with a savory tomato sauce, seasoned with onions and green peppers, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti until done.
- Cook ground beef until brown. Drain spaghetti. Drain ground beef.
- Mix tomato paste, spaghetti mix, onions, and green peppers and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider sautéing garlic and adding it to the sauce. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes for the tomato paste for a fresher taste. If you want to lighten the dish, try using turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add mushrooms or lentils. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Easiest Italian Beef. You can also offer red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a little heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results, avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Spaghetti contains roughly 146 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (184% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 that adds fiber and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta typically takes a bit longer to cook. The flavor and texture will slightly differ, but it will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for spaghetti mix?
If you don't have spaghetti mix, you can create your own by using Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will give you a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a homemade sauce with fresh herbs can elevate the dish, making it even more flavorful.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and peppers before adding the tomato paste. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more colorful and wholesome.
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).