Spanish Spaghetti
Spanish Spaghetti combines tender pasta with a savory, tomato-based sauce infused with ground beef, onions, green peppers, and spices, creating a hearty and flavorful dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a comforting taste of Spanish-inspired cuisine with a simple preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet and add diced onions and chopped green peppers.
- Cook until the vegetables are soft.
- Add ground beef, salt, black pepper, and chili pepper to the skillet.
- Cook until the beef is browned.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and sugar to the mixture.
- Cook together for 15 minutes on medium heat.
- Meanwhile, break spaghetti into pieces and cook according to package instructions, avoiding overcooking.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the sauce mixture.
- Transfer everything into a casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onions and peppers. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the chili pepper or add a pinch of cayenne. For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with lentils or a meat substitute. This dish pairs beautifully with Classic Baked Mostaccioli.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spanish Spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This dish is delightful alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, pair it with Tammy'S Meat Balls or serve with a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Spaghetti contains roughly 745 calories, with 45g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (298% of the Daily Value), protein (90% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1980mg per serving (86% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, which makes preparation easier. Opt for diced or crushed tomatoes in juice for the best texture. If using canned tomatoes, you might want to reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Spanish Spaghetti vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I freeze Spanish Spaghetti?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
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).