Ron Militello'S Italian Spaghetti

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Italian

A hearty Italian spaghetti dish featuring tender pork in a rich tomato sauce, seasoned with basil and oregano, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1 pound pork steaks or pork chops
  • 7 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sweet basil
  • 1 teaspoon crushed oregano
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Set out a large saucepot with a tight-fitting cover.
  2. Heat the olive oil in the saucepot.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook until lightly browned.
  4. Add the pork steaks or chops to the saucepot and cook, turning occasionally until browned.
  5. Remove the pork from the bone, slice into bite-sized pieces, and return to the saucepot.
  6. Add tomato sauce, sweet basil, crushed oregano, sugar, and salt to the saucepot.
  7. Cover and simmer over very low heat until flavors meld and pork is tender.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try using homemade tomato sauce instead of canned. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider substituting the pork with chicken or turkey. Adding a splash of red wine can enhance the depth of flavor. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian spaghetti pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also serve with a side of Vegetable Soup Of Trieste for a comforting combination. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian dining experience.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water or extra tomato sauce to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. It can also be reheated in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ron Militello'S Italian Spaghetti contains roughly 1003 calories, with 13g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2204mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).

1003 kcal 50% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.9g 26% DV
Total Fat 61.4g 79% DV
Carbs 106.3g 39% DV
Fiber 11.3g 40% DV
Sugar 14.7g 29% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2203.8mg 96% DV
Potassium 522.8mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 12mg 13% DV
Calcium 252.3mg 19% DV
Iron 7.4mg 41% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 meats instead of pork?

Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken, turkey, or even beef for different flavor profiles. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary to ensure the meat is cooked through and tender.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. Start with a small amount and increase to your desired spice level. This can complement the sweet flavors of the sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or microwave, as mentioned in the storage instructions.

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).

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