"Smashed Up" Spaghetti
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti dish with savory tomato sauce, ground beef, and tender vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat salad oil in a saucepan or skillet.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; cook until soft.
- Crumble in the ground beef.
- Cook and stir until the meat loses its red color.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Pour in canned tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a boil.
- Break spaghetti into pieces and sprinkle a little at a time into the sauce, stirring to keep it separated.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs such as oregano and basil to the sautéing vegetables. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for added nutrition. To make it vegetarian, replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 'Smashed Up' Spaghetti hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. It pairs well with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside Betty'S 'Love' Soup(Minestrone), which complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Smashed Up" Spaghetti contains roughly 591 calories, with 24g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value) and protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2300mg per serving (100% 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 a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For shorter cooking times, choose smaller pasta shapes, or adjust the cooking time accordingly for larger ones.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. You could also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce on top for individual servings.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through, ensuring a delicious meal with minimal effort.
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).