Spaghetti Red
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti dish featuring a rich meat sauce with vegetables, perfect for family dinners and those craving classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble the hamburger in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the skillet.
- Brown the hamburger until the vegetables are tender.
- Drain excess fat and liquid from the skillet.
- Add the spaghetti sauce mix, tomato sauce, and red kidney beans to the skillet. Let it simmer.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and mix it with the meat sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the hamburger with garlic powder or Italian herbs while cooking. You can substitute the red kidney beans with black beans or omit them entirely for a leaner dish. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or a meat substitute. If you have leftover vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, feel free to toss them in for extra nutrition. This dish serves as a great base for exploring other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Spaghetti Red with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian Pepper Bread for a delightful dinner experience. A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette can also complement the flavors and add a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it on the stove, adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to prevent drying out. If you want to freeze it, separate portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Red contains roughly 561 calories, with 28g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 567mg per serving (25% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cook the spaghetti fresh right before serving to ensure it stays al dente. You can also freeze the sauce and reheat it when ready to serve.
What can I do with leftover spaghetti?
Leftover spaghetti can be repurposed into a delicious pasta bake. Simply mix it with some cheese and your favorite vegetables, then bake until bubbly. Alternatively, you can toss it in a salad for a unique twist or use it in a stir-fry with some vegetables and sauce.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the skillet while browning the meat for an extra kick. Another option is to use spicy Italian sausage instead of hamburger for a more robust flavor. Adjust the spices to your heat preference for a custom touch.
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).