My Mothers Spaghetti
A hearty, comforting spaghetti dish with savory ground beef, rich tomato flavors, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until tender.
- Add ground chuck and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato soup, tomato sauce, minced garlic, and mushrooms.
- Add salt, pepper, bay leaves, thyme, and parsley.
- Optional: add Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer until heated through, about 10 minutes.
- Cook pasta of choice according to package instructions.
- Serve the sauce over cooked pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions. If you don’t have ground chuck, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; if you have fresh parsley or thyme, use them instead of dried. For a vegetarian twist, swap the meat with lentils or mushrooms. This sauce pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like May To September Pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti with crusty garlic bread and a side of Italian Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for added flavor. This dish is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. For dessert, consider pairing it with Strawberry Tiramisu Torte for a delightful finish.
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 or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Freezing is also an option; it can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mothers Spaghetti contains roughly 2143 calories, with 120g protein, 236g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (258% of the Daily Value), protein (240% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, the sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving. You can also freeze it for longer storage, making it a great option for meal prep.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
Any pasta works well, but traditional choices like spaghetti or fettuccine are recommended. You can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free options if needed.
How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?
To add more heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. For a milder flavor, ensure to balance the spices with a bit more tomato sauce or sugar.
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).