Spaghetti Sauce With Macaroni
A hearty spaghetti sauce with ground beef, tomato sauce, and fresh vegetables, perfect for family dinners and kid-friendly meals with rich flavors and comforting appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and diced tomatoes in melted margarine.
- In another pan, brown the hamburger meat.
- Drain the hamburger and add the sauteed vegetables to the meat.
- Add tomato sauce and stir well.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 to 30 minutes after adding 1 teaspoon oregano.
- Pour the sauce over cooked elbow macaroni or spaghetti noodles and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce for an added depth. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over cooked elbow macaroni or spaghetti noodles. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. It also goes well with Italian recipes, making it perfect for a family gathering or casual dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 broth if the sauce thickens. This dish also freezes well; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Sauce With Macaroni contains roughly 875 calories, with 13g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (183% of the Daily Value), and calcium (142% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 670mg per serving (29% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger, offering a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as turkey can dry out more easily than beef. You might also want to add extra seasoning to enhance its taste.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To spice up your sauce, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños while the vegetables sauté. You can also stir in a few dashes of hot sauce just before serving. Adjust the level of heat to your preference for a personalized kick.
What can I do with leftover spaghetti sauce?
Leftover spaghetti sauce can be repurposed in several ways! Use it as a base for a pizza, mix it with cooked rice for a quick casserole, or even incorporate it into a lasagna, like in Bill'S Lasagne. The possibilities are endless!
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).