Margaret'S Gourmet Spaghetti And Sauce
A hearty spaghetti dish with savory hamburger, rich tomato sauce, and a hint of spice, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, about 10 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter or margarine to the boiling spaghetti and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti and stir in an additional 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine while it is still hot.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano. If you prefer a meatless option, you can substitute the hamburger with mushrooms or lentils. For a spicy kick, increase the crushed red peppers. Make sure the spaghetti is al dente for the best texture. This dish pairs well with garlic bread, making it a great choice for a family dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for added color. A side salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the dish well. This recipe also pairs beautifully with garlic bread, making it a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion. For a more filling dinner, consider serving it alongside Lasagna Maria.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, either microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, or heat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to keep it moist. This prevents the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margaret'S Gourmet Spaghetti And Sauce contains roughly 755 calories, with 10g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% 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 whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may cook faster than regular spaghetti. Adjust the boiling time accordingly to achieve the desired texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the hamburger meat and replace it with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You could also add some canned chickpeas or lentils for protein. The flavors of the sauce will still shine through with these substitutions.
Can I freeze the sauce for later use?
Yes, the sauce freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
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).