Skillet Spaghetti
A hearty and flavorful skillet spaghetti dish featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and a tangy ketchup-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines savory meat, tender pasta, and a rich, slightly sweet tomato flavor that appeals to families and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic (if using), shortening, and salt in a skillet.
- Drain well to remove excess fat.
- Add the canned tomatoes, ketchup, and simmer until flavors meld.
- Add water and bring to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook until tender.
- Transfer to a baking pan, top with cheese, and brown under the broiler.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes while browning the meat. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber. If you don't have shortening, olive oil works well to brown the ingredients. This dish can be a quick weeknight meal or served as comfort food alongside American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Skillet spaghetti is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with appetizer meatballs as an additional protein option, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinner parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. If freezing, be sure to leave out the cheese until ready to serve for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Spaghetti contains roughly 719 calories, with 27g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. 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 use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as penne or fusilli if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as different pasta shapes may require different cooking durations.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version. Adjust the seasonings to ensure plenty of flavor.
How do I know when the spaghetti is done cooking?
The spaghetti is done when it is al dente, meaning it should be tender yet still have a slight bite to it. Taste a piece around the suggested cooking time to check for doneness, and remember it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.
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).