Spaghetti A La Hazel
A hearty spaghetti dish with savory meat sauce, fragrant herbs, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and bell pepper in oil until tender.
- Add ground beef and brown until cooked through.
- Stir in oregano, tomato sauce, water, and chili powder, then simmer for at least 1 hour.
- Add more water as necessary during simmering.
- Combine the sauce with cooked spaghetti.
- Top with grated cheese (Parmesan or American).
- Bake the assembled dish in a 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried oregano. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter dish. To save time, pre-chopped vegetables are a great option. If you want a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste, similar to Skillet Beef Italiano.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spaghetti A La Hazel with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top enhances the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy No Boil Lasagna for a family dinner. For a fun twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent dryness. You can also freeze the sauce separately for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this dish on a busy night without the extra prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti A La Hazel contains roughly 1279 calories, with 63g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (160% of the Daily Value), protein (127% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 973mg per serving (42% 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 prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just reheat it on the stove before combining it with the pasta. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
What type of spaghetti should I use?
Any type of spaghetti works well for this recipe, but traditional durum wheat spaghetti offers the best texture. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also be used depending on dietary preferences. Cook according to package instructions for best results.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to incorporate vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper for a delightful twist. This not only enhances the dish but also makes it more colorful and appealing.
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).