Spaghetti And Meat Sauce(About 10 Servings)
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti dish featuring savory meat sauce with smoked sausage, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining rich tomato flavors with aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot, cook ground beef and sliced smoked sausage (if using) over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water; bring to a boil.
- Add seasoning salt, oregano, basil, black pepper, and sugar; reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain spaghetti and serve topped with the meat sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding chopped mushrooms or diced carrots to the sauce. A splash of red wine can also deepen the taste. If you're short on time, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat alternative. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti and meat sauce with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with Eggplant Parmesan Soup. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch. This dish is perfect for family gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Meat Sauce(About 10 Servings) contains roughly 568 calories, with 19g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (226% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 63g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving. For even better flavor, make it the day before and let it sit overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
What kind of pasta is best for this dish?
While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just ensure to cook it al dente according to package instructions. For a fun twist, you could even try a whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or using a spicier sausage. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder sauce, you can omit the black pepper and use sweet Italian sausage instead of smoked sausage.
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).