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