Rising up we did not at all times have all of the substances for a spaghetti dinner so my mother would create issues with what she had. This recipe turned a staple in our neighborhood (Oak Cliff) not simply our house.
Ingredients
- 2 lb ground chuck
- 1 lg bell pepper, diced
- 1 md onion, diced
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp dried basil (fresh if you have it)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 8 oz tomato puree
- 1 can shoepeg corn (11 oz)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tsp Slap Yo Mama seasoning (Lawry’s or something similar)
Directions
- Cook bell pepper, onion, and ground beef. Add some Slap yo Mama seasoning to taste. Drain.
- Cook the elbow macaroni as the box instructs. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Mix all the other ingredients in a large pot over medium heat. Once you get a boil, add the ground beef mixture and simmer for ten minutes.
- Add the pasta and simmer for 5 more minutes.
Here are some variations you can try for your spaghetti dinner recipe:
- Protein Swap: Instead of ground chuck, you could use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You could also add Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in some chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, just before serving for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Different Pasta: Swap out elbow macaroni for other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.
Here are some tips for your spaghetti dinner:
- Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Taste as you go to find the right balance.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions before baking for later use.
- Toppings: Experiment with different toppings, like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, to add extra flavor when serving.
To store your spaghetti dinner, follow these steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in the container.
- Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. You can also use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the dish tightly.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. It should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Enjoy your cooking!