Classic Spaghetti Recipe: Comfort in Every Bite

Hey there, food lovers! If you’re ready to dive into a big ol’ pot of comfort and deliciousness, then buckle up because today we’re making a classic spaghetti dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. This isn’t just any spaghetti; it’s packed with rich flavors, juicy ground beef, savory sausage, and a tomato sauce that’s simmered to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to enjoy a hearty meal, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s get cooking!

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Why You Should Make This Spaghetti Recipe

Spaghetti is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of good food and even better times. With each forkful, you’re diving into layers of flavor and texture that make this dish a true classic. What makes this spaghetti recipe a must-make is its balance of savory ingredients and the easy-to-follow process that ensures a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. The blend of ground beef and andouille sausage gives it a unique kick, while the rich tomato sauce ties it all together. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

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Ingredients

• 1/2 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped
• 1 large rib of celery, chopped
• 2 medium green bell peppers, chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 pound andouille sausage, thinly sliced
• 4 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (optional, adjust to taste)
• 2 large bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 pound vermicelli or thin spaghetti, broken into halves or thirds

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Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Spaghetti

1. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Add Garlic:
   • Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
4. Cook the Beef:
   • Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook and stir until it’s browned all over. Drain off any excess grease.
5. Incorporate Sausage:
   • Stir in the thinly sliced andouille sausage and cook for 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Add Tomato Base:
   • Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, hot sauce, and water. Stir to combine.
7. Season the Sauce:
   • Add the granulated sugar, dried Italian seasoning, and Creole or Cajun seasoning (if using). Toss in the bay leaves. Mix well.
8. Simmer:
   • Bring the sauce to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, partially covered, for 1 hour. Stir occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the sauce simmers, cook the vermicelli or spaghetti in a large pot of well-salted water according to the package directions. Drain well.
10. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
    • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the pot. Stir well to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
11. Rest and Serve:
    • Cover the pot and let it rest off the heat for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

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Expert Tips and Tricks

1. Brown the Meat Well:
   • Don’t rush the browning of the beef. A good sear adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
2. Adjust Spice Levels:
   • If you like a bit of heat, don’t shy away from adding extra hot sauce or Cajun seasoning.
3. Simmer Low and Slow:
   • For the best flavor, let the sauce simmer slowly. The longer it cooks, the richer the taste.
4. Use Fresh Herbs:
   • If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, add it in the last 10 minutes of simmering for a fresh herb boost.
5. Cook Pasta Separately:
   • Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy and helps it maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
6. Add Cheese:
   • For extra richness, mix in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving.
7. Adjust Consistency:
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Make Ahead:
   • This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it properly and reheat gently.
9. Freezer Friendly:
   • This recipe freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers for easy future meals.
10. Enhance with Veggies:
    • Feel free to sneak in additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

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Variations to Try

1. Meatless Option:
   • Swap the ground beef and sausage for plant-based alternatives or lentils for a vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Increase the hot sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
3. Cheesy Delight:
   • Stir in some ricotta cheese or mix in shredded mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
4. Tomato Rich:
   • Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a smoother sauce.
5. Herb Infusion:
   • Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavor profiles.
6. Seafood Spaghetti:
   • Add shrimp or crab for a seafood twist.
7. Bolognese Style:
   • For a rich Bolognese flavor, simmer the sauce longer with a splash of red wine.
8. Creamy Version:
   • Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half for a creamy sauce.
9. Spaghetti Carbonara:
   • Use eggs and cheese to create a creamy carbonara-inspired spaghetti.
10. Pesto Infusion:
    • Mix in some pesto for a fresh and aromatic flavor.

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What to Serve With Spaghetti

1. Garlic Bread:
   • Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing with spaghetti.
2. Caesar Salad:
   • A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers make a colorful and healthy side.
4. Steamed Broccoli:
   • Lightly steamed broccoli adds a touch of green and balances the meal.
5. Caprese Salad:
   • Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
6. Antipasto Platter:
   • Serve with an antipasto platter for a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives.
7. Grilled Chicken:
   • Grilled chicken breasts add extra protein and make the meal more substantial.
8. Bruschetta:
   • Top slices of toasted baguette with fresh tomato and basil for a flavorful starter.
9. Spinach Salad:
   • A spinach salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the hearty pasta.
10. Fried Mozzarella Sticks:
    • Crispy mozzarella sticks are a fun and cheesy side that’s always a hit.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

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How Much Spaghetti for Family Gatherings?

For a family gathering, plan on about 1/2 pound of pasta per person. This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, so adjust accordingly based on the number of guests. For larger gatherings, simply scale up the recipe and use a big pot to accommodate the increased volume.

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How Far in Advance Can I Make Spaghetti?

You can make this spaghetti up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat just before serving. If making ahead for a larger event, consider preparing the sauce a day ahead and cooking the pasta fresh to ensure the best texture.