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!