Southern Spaghetti is a delightful twist on classic Italian fare that brings a burst of flavor and heartiness that’s perfect for any dinner table. Growing up in the Southern United States, this dish often graced our family gatherings, bringing together the rich flavors of beef and sausage infused with vibrant vegetables and herbs. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and, best of all, a family favorite that kids adore! Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a comforting dish to serve at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
Southern Spaghetti isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and textures. It combines the savory richness of ground beef and Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions, creating a symphony of tastes in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy families.
“This dish is like a warm hug on a plate! The flavors meld beautifully, and everyone in my family loves it.” – A satisfied home cook
Packed with nutritious veggies, it’s also a great way to sneak in some extra fiber for kids who may be picky eaters. Plus, it’s a fantastic recipe to whip up for larger gatherings or potlucks, serving up mouthwatering portions with ease.
How to make Southern Spaghetti
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Southern Spaghetti is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by browning your meats, then combine them with a vibrant sauce before mixing in the pasta. In just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To make this delicious Southern Spaghetti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Feel free to swap out the Italian sausage for a spicy version or even a turkey sausage for a healthier twist.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, using a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Brown the meat thoroughly, about 7-8 minutes, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, approximately 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Toss the drained spaghetti with the sauce in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an added touch of flavor.
How to serve Southern Spaghetti
Best ways to enjoy it
Southern Spaghetti is best enjoyed steaming hot, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese. For a fresh contrast, garnish with vibrant basil leaves. Pair the dish with a side salad for a refreshing crunch, or serve with warm garlic bread for that extra comfort factor.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Southern Spaghetti fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For best results, consider using a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage for a layered flavor profile. Browning the meat well gives depth to the dish, so don’t rush that step. Additionally, tasting the sauce before serving allows you to adjust seasoning to your preference. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance any acidity from the tomatoes.
Variations
Creative twists
There are endless possibilities to customize your Southern Spaghetti. Swap in different types of pasta like penne or fusilli, or throw in additional veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a nutritionally-packed version. For a spicy kick, try adding more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Common questions
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare? This dish typically takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a quick meal.
Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and toss it with freshly cooked spaghetti when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well if you want a leaner option or a vegetarian variation.
Southern Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a great way to bring family together over a delicious bowl of goodness. Enjoy this recipe and make it your own!
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Southern Spaghetti
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful twist on classic Italian fare, Southern Spaghetti combines savory ground beef and Italian sausage with vibrant vegetables and herbs, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking the meat apart as it cooks, for about 7-8 minutes, until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Toss the drained spaghetti with the sauce in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern