Prepare to be amazed by my favorite spaghetti recipe! This incredibly easy and quick dish combines the hearty flavors of minced meat, the sweetness of tomatoes and carrots, and the aromatic herbs to create a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this spaghetti recipe will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious pasta dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: 375g
- Minced meat: 450g
- Chopped tomatoes: 2 cans
- Onion: 2 pcs
- Carrots: 4 small
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Olive oil: for cooking
- Salt: to taste
- Oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Dried basil: 1/2 tsp
- Red pepper flakes: 1/8 tsp
- Parsley: fresh, for garnish
- Spinach: a handful, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onions and garlic.
- Peel and grate the carrots.
- Drain the canned chopped tomatoes.
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables and Meat:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and grated carrots. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the carrots are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Minced Meat:
- Add the minced meat to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season with salt, oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Tomatoes:
- Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- If using spinach, add it to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir until the spinach is wilted and well incorporated.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until the spaghetti is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
More Information About the Recipe
This spaghetti recipe is a delightful combination of savory minced meat, sweet and tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The use of chopped tomatoes provides a rich, tangy base, while the addition of carrots adds a subtle sweetness. The blend of oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes gives the dish an authentic Italian flavor, and the fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness. For a nutritious twist, adding spinach towards the end of cooking boosts the dish’s vitamin content and adds a beautiful green color.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
- Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices, along with the richness of the meat and vegetables, creates a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This classic spaghetti dish is loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spaghetti: Provides a good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
- Minced Meat: Rich in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and spinach add vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to overall health.
- Tomatoes: High in vitamins A and C, and a good source of antioxidants like lycopene.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Conclusion
This favorite spaghetti recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a nutritious and balanced meal. Perfect for any occasion, this spaghetti recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, impressing everyone with its rich flavors and ease of preparation. Give it a try, and watch as it quickly becomes a family favorite!