Dirty Spaghetti – Flavorful and Ready in 30 Min
Dirty Spaghetti is a quick, flavorful weeknight pasta made with spaghetti, ground beef or turkey, diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning, finished with Parmesan cheese.
Dirty Spaghetti is a quick and mouthwatering dish, perfect for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a plate of pasta that is loaded with flavor, making it a family favorite!
Dirty Spaghetti
- Unique twist on a classic spaghetti dish.
- Loaded with robust flavors and spices.
- Perfect for a 30-minute meal without compromising on taste!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How to Make
To prepare Dirty Spaghetti, begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Once the spaghetti is done, drain and mix it into the skillet with the meat sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- For extra spice, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the protein with plant-based options for a vegetarian version.
- Fresh basil can add a nice touch of flavor!
Make-Ahead
You can prepare the meat sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just cook the spaghetti fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Storing
Store leftover Dirty Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you want to store it for longer, Dirty Spaghetti can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and label it for easy identification.
Reheating
To reheat, place the spaghetti in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help it regain its former consistency. Stir frequently until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Dirty Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a casual dinner experience!
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Related Recipes
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Boil pasta
Boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Sauté aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
Brown meat
Add ground meat, breaking apart until browned.
Add tomatoes and simmer
Stir in tomatoes and Italian seasoning, simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine with pasta
Mix cooked spaghetti into the meat sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve
Serve hot with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For extra spice, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the protein with plant-based options for a vegetarian version.
- Fresh basil can add a nice touch of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a lighter alternative. Cook it until browned and season well.
How long does it take to make Dirty Spaghetti?
About 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the meat with plant-based protein or mushrooms and use vegetable broth if preferred.
What goes well with Dirty Spaghetti?
Garlic bread and a simple green salad pair nicely.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
