Joni'S Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce with ground beef, salsa, and tomato paste, perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gatherings with a mild, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add salsa, tomato paste, sugar, and salt to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions when browning the beef. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using medium or hot salsa instead of mild. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the sauce's flavor profile. Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti sauce over al dente spaghetti for a classic dish. It pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of Beth'S Pot Roast Meat Loaf. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joni'S Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 273 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg per serving (31% 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 a different type of meat in this sauce?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor and texture. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make this sauce vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute. Ensure to check the salsa ingredients for any animal products.
What can I serve with this spaghetti sauce?
This spaghetti sauce pairs well with traditional sides like garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. You can also enjoy it with a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.
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).