Simple Spaghetti
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti dish featuring ground beef, tomato sauce, and herbs, topped with Velveeta cheese for a creamy finish—perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or pot.
- Add the onion and cook until translucent.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, water, salt, parsley, basil, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Add the uncooked spaghetti, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in about 1 cup of Velveeta cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, optionally reheated for leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using olive oil instead of regular oil and adding minced garlic when sautéing the onions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. To enhance the sauce, a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of additional parsley for color. A side salad with vinaigrette and garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a slice of Italian Beef Bake for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the spaghetti from drying out and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Spaghetti contains roughly 749 calories, with 9g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (154% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1636mg per serving (71% 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?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great substitute. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may require a few extra minutes to become tender. Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients, making your meal healthier while still maintaining a delicious flavor.
How can I make this spaghetti dish spicy?
To add some heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce. You can also serve it with a side of hot pepper sauce for those who enjoy extra spice. Adjust the amount to your taste preference for a flavorful kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the spaghetti ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, simply combine them in a pot and heat through. This method is perfect for busy weeknights and is reminiscent of other make-ahead dishes like Make Ahead Spaghetti Casserole.
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).