Judy'S Spaghetti
A hearty spaghetti dish with savory ground meat, mushrooms, and vegetables in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the diced celery, garlic, and chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Add the browned ground meat to the vegetables and cook until fully browned.
- Stir in the tomato puree, salt, and pepper, then combine all ingredients together.
- Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes to develop flavors.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
- Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you're looking for a healthier option, replace ground meat with turkey or lean beef. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms for added depth. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables instead. Browse more Italian recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor. A side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish, balancing the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or a hearty Italian bread can also complement your meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Make sure the spaghetti is heated thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Judy'S Spaghetti contains roughly 1203 calories, with 96g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (191% of the Daily Value), iron (136% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2251mg per serving (98% 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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose to ensure it's fully cooked through.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) during the last few minutes of cooking for a thicker consistency.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. There are many fantastic gluten-free options available today that maintain great texture and flavor. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
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).