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Spaghetti

best easy cheesy chicken spaghetti.

July 12, 2026 by Becky Spoon Leave a Comment

Chicken SpaghettiJump to Recipe
Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti

This easy cheesy chicken spaghetti is so tasty! This casserole serves six to 8, and if there are any leftovers, it tastes even better the following day. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and pasta creates a comforting meal. Topped with melted cheese, it adds a delightful richness that everyone will love. Preparing it is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete dinner that satisfies. Your family will be requesting this dish again and again!

Another fantastic way to serve this easy cheesy chicken spaghetti is to bake it in individual portions. This not only makes for an elegant presentation but also allows each person to have their own serving, which can be particularly useful for parties or gatherings. Simply divide the mixture into ramekins, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti

To elevate the flavors of this easy cheesy chicken spaghetti, consider adding a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or even carrots. These not only add nutrition but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish. Sauté the vegetables alongside the onions and peppers until they are slightly tender before adding them to the pasta mixture. This will ensure that they integrate well into the creamy sauce.

This recipe is not just limited to chicken; you can easily substitute cooked turkey or even shrimp for a different twist. Experimenting with proteins can provide a fresh taste each time you prepare this dish. For instance, if you choose shrimp, be sure to sauté them until they are pink and opaque before combining them with the sauce.

Cooking from our pantry

Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti

As we strive to make the most of our pantry supplies, create meals that last, and prepare dishes that please the whole family, this recipe fulfills all those needs while being budget-friendly. If you’re serving a large group, feel free to double or triple the ingredients; it works perfectly for any crowd. This recipe is an excellent choice for feeding many people.

For those who prefer a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture. This addition creates a balance of flavors that can cater to both mild and spicy preferences, making the dish enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti

Every item in this recipe can actually be from your pantry expect for the fresh ingredients like onions and peppers, and of course the cheese. I used fresh mushrooms and chicken that I had leftover, but you could use jarred mushrooms and canned chicken! I did top it with a mixture of cheddar cheese and Italian bread crumbs but you could leave the bread crumbs out all together.

My boys loved this growing up. When my youngest son moved from home and shared a place with friends, I’d make a huge recipe of this and send it home with him! This makes a great dish to serve a crowd, and it is a perfect make ahead dish that you can freeze before baking!

easy cheesy chicken spaghetti.

Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti

What you will need for this recipe.

  • Chicken
  • spaghetti
  • mushrooms
  • olive oil
  • butter
  • onions
  • red, yellow and green bell peppers
  • heavy cream
  • chicken stock
  • flour
  • pimento
  • seasonings
  • pasta water

As you can see most of the ingredients are common ingredients most of us always have on hand however, dI can’t find the condensed soups in Cabo San Lucas where I live so I made this recipe with a roux, heavy cream and chicken stock. i also used fresh mushrooms that I sauteed. I would always have cream of mushroom soup on hand living in texas, so I would buy them in 6’s like you get a Sams club or online at amazon for a 4 pack. Here’s a link for the amazon 4-pack: https://amzn.to/2Wi5dbg.

How to store and reheat chicken spaghetti.

Chicken Spaghetti
Chicken Spaghetti

Keeping the “cooking from the pantry” theme going, you can open a can of green beans to serve with this and that would be a great addition. Here’s my simple recipe for canned green beans: Cooking from the Pantry: Taste like Fresh, Easy Green Beans with Pork

Easy Green Beans with Pork
Easy Green Beans with Pork

My Mom would have probably thrown in a green salad and bread because she always served complete meals that covered the food wheel and she would include dessert!

Here’s the easy recipe! Hope you enjoy!

Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken Spaghetti

Print Recipe
Coursedinner, Main Course
CuisineAmerican
Keywordcheesy, chicken, chicken spaghetti, dinner, Easy, main course, spaghetti
Servings6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 3-4 cups cooked chspaghettiicken
  • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (I use a combination of mild and sharp)
  • 2-3 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed ( Optional, but I really like it in the dish) or American
  • 6-8 large mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 green pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup yellow
  • 2-3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 4 oz jar pimentos, drained (you could substitute a can of rotel, but its not available in Cabo)
  • 1/4 cup flour for roux
  • 1 cup heavy cream (more if needed)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Lawry's seasoned salt
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • cajun seasoning (optional)
  • 1/8-1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup additional grated cheddar cheese for the top

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
    Dice the chicken from a chicken you have cooked or a rotisserie chicken. I cooked mine in the instant pot. I placed the chicken in the pot, adding water up about 3/4 to the top of the chicken. I added 2 bay leaves, a stalk of celery, 2 carrots, 1/2 onion and a little salt. I set the Instant Pot for 30 minutes and allowed it to release on it's on. I then remove the chicken and strain the broth, discarding the vegetables. When cool, you can dice or tear the chicken into pieces. You will probably have more chicken than you need left, so use it for another recipe.
    If you have a rotisserie chicken it will work, you'll just need some chicken broth in your pantry.
  • Cook your spaghetti according to packaged instructions.
  • While your pasta is cooking heat the butter and oil in a large pot. Add the mushrooms and cook until the water has evaporated from the mushrooms and they are starting to brown. Don't salt your mushrooms until they begin to brown because the salt will just release the water. When they start to brown add the salt and pepper. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Add your onions and peppers and cook until the onions are translucent. When tender add the mushrooms back in. Add all of your seasonings, stir for a minute or so. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil, then add the flour. Cook the flour and vegetable mixture for a minute or so.
  • While stirring add your heavy cream and chicken stock and stir to make your sauce. Add the drained pimento. Add the velveeta or american cheese along with 1/2 of the cheddar cheese, and cook on low to medium until the cheese melts. Add your chicken and combine.
  • If your pan is large enough to add the pasta do so, otherwise, add the spaghetti to a baking dish large enough for you to toss all the ingredients.
  • Cover and cook for 30 minutes until bubbly, then remove the foil and add your cheese. Cook an additional 15 minutes or until your cheese has melted and the casserole is bubbly. Enjoy!

Additionally, if you want to incorporate some whole grains, using whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti can enhance the nutritional value of the meal. Whole grains provide more fiber and can help keep everyone feeling fuller for longer.

This easy cheesy chicken spaghetti can also be customized to suit different dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta, and ensure that the chicken stock is gluten-free as well. This dish is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary restrictions while still being delicious.

If you have any leftovers of this easy cheesy chicken spaghetti, it stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

For an even deeper flavor, consider letting the chicken spaghetti sit in the fridge overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, making the dish even tastier when reheated. Many people find that casseroles like this one taste even better the next day.

Lastly, don’t forget the power of garnishing! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving can add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Not only does it enhance the appearance, but it also contributes a bright flavor that complements the richness of the easy cheesy chicken spaghetti.

Filed Under: Poultry Tagged With: casserole, chicken, chicken spaghetti, Spaghetti

Dirty Spaghetti Recipe: Viral Meal You Must Try

April 23, 2026 by Becky Spoon

Jump to Recipe
Dirty Spaghetti
Dirty Spaghetti

Dirty spaghetti is like dirty rice, but it’s with spaghetti! If you are on Tiktok, this is a viral recipe and did I mention that’s really delicious!

To give you a sense of its popularity, dirty spaghetti has gone viral on platforms like TikTok, where users showcase their unique takes on the recipe. You can find creative twists where home cooks experiment with different meats, such as chicken or sausage, and even try out gluten-free pasta options. This adaptability is what keeps the dish relevant and loved by many.

The concept of dirty spaghetti borrows inspiration from the traditional dish known as dirty rice, which is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. Just like dirty rice, dirty spaghetti is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a one-pot meal that combines a range of ingredients for a satisfying experience. The beauty of dirty spaghetti lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Imagine the delightful mix of spices and textures as the ingredients meld together, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting.

Dirty Rice

What do you need for this dish?

  • Ground beef
  • Italian sauage
  • red and green bell pepper
  • white or yellow onion
  • AP flour
  • tomaton paste
  • worcestershire sauce
  • garlic
  • beef broth
  • spaghetti
  • onion soup mix
  • Morton Nature’s seasoning
  • Italian seasoning

Note: Because I live in Mexico, there’s a couple of items that I couldn’t get here; for example, Morton’s natures seasoning. Let me show my followers in Mexico what it is and where they can find similar. This link is within the US: https://amzn.to/48juBSg

A good substitute for my Mexico friends would be: https://amzn.to/41Tjsnz

Why is Dirty Spaghetti So Popular?

Dirty Spaghetti
Dirty Spaghetti

Dirty spaghetti’s rise in popularity can be attributed to its simplicity and incredible flavor. In a time when many people are looking for quick and easy meal solutions, this dish offers a satisfying option that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s also a budget-friendly recipe that allows you to use whatever you have on hand, making it a hit among families and college students alike.

Another reason for its appeal is the communal aspect of dirty spaghetti. It’s perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends. Everyone can dive into the same pot, and the dish often brings back memories of home cooking, making it nostalgic for many. The warmth and heartiness of dirty spaghetti create a sense of togetherness that enhances the dining experience.

How to Make Dirty Spaghetti

Making dirty spaghetti is straightforward and can be done in under an hour. Start by browning the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large pot. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavors of the dish. Once the meats are browned, you’ll want to add in the chopped bell peppers and onions, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.

As you build the base, don’t forget to season generously with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and your choice of spices. The addition of tomato paste will give the spaghetti its signature ‘dirty’ look, as well as a rich, robust flavor. Stir these ingredients well before mixing in the beef broth, which will provide the necessary liquid for cooking the spaghetti.

Finally, add the spaghetti. You can break the noodles in half if you prefer shorter pieces, but traditional long spaghetti works just as well. Let everything simmer together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The result is a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Dirty Spaghetti

To elevate your dirty spaghetti to the next level, consider adding some fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. A sprinkle of cheese can also enhance the flavor profile beautifully. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes is a great way to spice things up. Additionally, serving the spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad can round out the meal perfectly.

In conclusion, dirty spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines comfort, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and dive into a bowl of delicious dirty spaghetti!

This dish is highly customizable; feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. You might try incorporating diced zucchini or mushrooms for additional texture. The possibilities are endless, and that’s part of what makes dirty spaghetti such an appealing dish to create and enjoy.

Need another easy dish:

Try this American Goulash recipe! Ultimate comfort food – Old Fashioned American Goulash

Ultimate comfort food - Old Fashioned American Goulash
Ultimate comfort food – Old Fashioned American Goulash

Dirty Spaghhetti

Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground Beef
  • 2 Italian sausagef links or Italian sausage
  • 1 Red Bell pepper, diced
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
  • 1/2 Large white onion
  • 4 tbsp All purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire
  • 4 Cloves garlic
  • 3-4 cups Beef broth
  • 1 lb Spaghetti
  • 1/2-1 cup Pasta water
  • Salt for pasta
  • Onion Soup mix, the amount you prefer
  • 1-2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Nature's Seasoning (I made mine because I cannot find it in Mexico, recipe below)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Natures Seasoning mix

  • 3 tbsp  salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp turmeric
  • 1.5 tsp corn starch

Instructions

  • To a large pot or skillet, brown the ground beef and the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up until lightly browned. Drain if needed. I didn't because the ground beef we get in Mexico is pretty lean. The fat adds to the flavor anyway. When meat has browned, add the flour and cook a minute or two.
  • Add in the tomato paste, combine and cook a couple of minutes. Add your chopped vegetables , along with your Worcestershire, the garlic. Slowly add your beef broth. Add your lipton soup mix (I had to use an onion dip mix because the soup mix is not available in Cabo) along with your Nature's seasoning (recipe below if you can't locate) the cajun seasoning, and the italian seasoning. Allow to cook 10-15 minutes vegetables are tender.
  • Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water reserving about a cup of pasta water! Add the spaghetti to the meat sauce, combine well, Serve immediately with a little garlic bread.

Filed Under: Pasta, Sauces, Compound Butters, Condiments Tagged With: Spaghetti

Excellent Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta

October 13, 2025 by Becky Spoon

Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto PastaJump to Recipe
Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta
Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta

These recipe for Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta is so, so good! Sometimes it seems ground chicken recipes aren’t flavorful, but I tell you, these meatballs are loaded with flavors like the Italian seasoning I used and the parmesan cheese! They are moist, a little salty from the parmesan and they have a great texture.

Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta
Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta

I saw this dish on Instagram by The Modern Proper blog. My dish is a little different because I substituted the fennel seeds she used in her meatballs with Italian Seasonings. I couldn’t find my fennel seeds she used in her recipe so the Italian Seasonings worked perfectly. That’s what cooking is about! Taking a recipe and substituting what you have.

What ingredients do you need for this recipe?

For the Meatballs:

  • ground chicken
  • breadcrumbs
  • eggs
  • Italian seasoning
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • garlic

For the Broccoli Pesto Pasta:

  • broccoli
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • jar of pesto
  • spaghetti
Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta
Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta

The Modern Proper’s recipe calls for a roasted broccoli pesto with fresh basil. I didn’t have fresh basil and I didn’t want to drive 30 miles to get fresh basil, but I did have broccoli and a jar of basil pesto. I roasted my broccoli, put it in my food processor, pulsed it, then added my jar of pesto. I added a little more parmesan cheese, pulsed a couple of times and it’s a perfect broccoli pesto! I used a jar of pesto from my favorite HEB store in my area. Here’s the link for the brand I used Mezzetta Pesto Basil: https://www.heb.com/product-detail/mezzetta-basil-pesto/1491629 however, there are many great brands of pesto.

Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Want another meatball recipe? This is another excellent recipe that I think you will love. Here’s the link for the recipe: Simply Delicious – Bucatini All’Amatriciana

Bucatini All'Amatriciana
Bucatini All’Amatriciana

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

Baked Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Print Recipe
Coursedinner, Lunch, Main Course
CuisineItalian
Keywordbaked, baked chicken meatballs, chicken, cicken meatballs, meatballs

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • 1 cup fresh soft breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated on a box grater
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Broccoli Pesto Pasta

  • 1 large head of broccoli, roughly chopped
  • extra virgin olive oil for coating the broccoli
  • 1 8 oz jar pesto of your choice (I used Mezzetta Branc)
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb spaghetti or similar pasta

Instructions

For the Broccoli Pesto

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place on a sheet pan and toss with olive oil. Roast until the edges begin to crisp and the inside of the broccoli is tender, about 30 minutes.
  • Place a pot of water with salt on the burner and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until your desired doneness. In a food processor, pulse the roasted broccoli until roughly ground. Add the jar of pesto and the parmesan cheese. Pulse several times to combine and add a little extra virgin olive oil adding more if you want a thinner consistency.

For the Meatballs

  • Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. In the same bowl, use your hands to combine the ground chicken, salt, eggs, Italian seasoning, grated parmesan cheese, garlic and bread crumbs. Form into uniform meatballs, about 2 tablespoons each and arrange on a baking sheet.
  • Roast the meatballs for 15 minutes on center rack. Turn the heat to 500 degrees F and brush the meatballs with olive oil. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  • In a skillet or separate pan, remove the pasta from the water reserving the pasta water. Add a little pesto at a time, along with some pasta water, continuing adding pesto until the desired amount is reached. Serve topped with the Meatballs and more parmesan cheese. Bon Appetit!

Filed Under: Pasta, Poultry Tagged With: baked chicken meatballs, broccoli, broccoli pesto, italian, Spaghetti

easy fresh tomato pasta – my #1 go to in a pinch

March 28, 2020 by Becky Spoon

fresh tomato pasta.Jump to Recipe
fresh tomato pasta.
fresh tomato pasta.

This fresh tomato pasta is another perfect recipe for cooking things you have on hand and a great use for those ripe tomatoes that we need to use up. I’m looking daily in my refrigerator and at my non perishable items trying to make sure I don’t let anything go to waste!

fresh tomato pasta.
fresh tomato pasta.

Other that the olive oil and salt and pepper, this recipe has 4 ingredients! I used very ripe Roma tomatoes, a few leftover sweet cherry tomatoes I had on hand, fresh garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil or Italian parsley, whichever you have on hand. In a pinch you could use dried basil if you don’t have fresh.

fresh tomato pasta.

I used spaghetti, however any pasta would work. I tubed pasta or fusilli or other spiral shaped pasta would work well. This recipe is not one to just make with fresh tomatoes when you need to! I’ve been making this recipe for years and I have used a canned diced tomato before. I would use a really good tomato like Mutti or a San Marzano brand. Here’s a link for the Mutti: https://amzn.to/2Jhwseb

Need another pasta receip? https://the2spoons.com/best-pasta-and-clams/. This pasta with clams is also a great recipe for cooking from your pantry. While at the grocery store the other day they had canned clams which work well in the pasta with clams dish.

Best Pasta and Clams
Best Pasta and Clams

Here’s the easy recipe for the fresh tomato pasta! Bon Appetit!

Fresh Tomato Pasta

Print Recipe
Coursedinner, Lunch, Main Course
CuisineItalian
Keywordfresh tomatoes, pasta, spaghetti, tomatoes
Servings2 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of your choice, I used spaghetti
  • 8-10 Roma tomatoes, diced or good quality Italian diced canned tomatoes like Mutti or San Marzano.
  • handful of cherry tomatoes (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • fresh basil, several leaves torn, or 1/4 cup fresh Italian Parsley chopped (If you only have dried, add about 1/2 teaspoon of basil, parsley, or a combination of both)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling while plating
  • salt and pepper to taste and salt for the pasta water
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water or more if needed
  • Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  • Bring a salted pot of water to a boil and add your pasta.
  • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil to medium in a large skillet. Add the red pepper flakes, cook about a minute, then add the garlic. Stirring constantly add the garlic and do not allow the garlic to brown. Reduce the heat if you need to. After about a minute, add the tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes are broken up and a sauce has formed. Salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove the pasta from pot with tongs or a spider and add to the sauce in the skillet, tossing with tongs and adding a little pasta water at a time as needed to make a nice sauce.
  • Check for salt and add your fresh herbs. Toss then serve in bowls or on plates drizzled with a little extra virgin olive oil and grated or shaved Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Filed Under: Pasta Tagged With: fresh, fresh tomato, pasta, Spaghetti

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

November 11, 2019 by Becky Spoon

Easy Spaghetti and MeatballsJump to Recipe
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

I call this recipe Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs because I’m using a jar of one of my favorite marinara sauces rather than the homemade I usually make!! After realizing I didn’t have fresh basil, I had already planned on the meatballs, I was happy to find I had jars of marinara in my pantry. I didn’t want to run to the store so it worked out great! And easy! I used Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce. Here’s the link if your not familiar: https://www.amazon.com/Raos-Homemade-Marinara-Sauce-24-Ounce/dp/B004TQPJAM. Use your favorite sauce, you don’t have to use my choice, I just happened to have this on hand and like it.

I think Spaghetti and Meatballs is a great dish when it’s cold and the weather is bad. It’s just one of those cozy comfort foods. Make your favorite garlic bread, add a green salad with a good vinaigrette and your meal is complete. This is a meal you can make ahead, either the day before or the morning of your dinner. Additionally, he meatballs and sauce freeze well.

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

The meatballs are homemade and delicious! They are loaded with spices, lots of parmesan cheese along with 3 meats, ground beef, ground pork and Italian sausage. I used hot Italian Sausage but use mild if you prefer. I simmer the meatballs in the jarred sauce for about an hour to allow the flavors to come together.

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

After your initial recipe, these meatballs make the perfect meatball sub. I make them all the time with my leftover meatballs. Just get a good French bread, toast it on both sides with a little butter (just the insides) heat your leftover meatballs, then add mozzarella. Place them under the broiler until your cheese has melted! A delicious sub!

Another use for the leftover meatballs and marinara is a delicious Leftover Meatballs Lasagna. Here’s the recipe: https://the2spoons.com/leftover-meatballs-lasagna/.

Leftover Meatball Lasagna
Leftover Meatball Lasagna

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

Don’t forget to finish your dish with shaved parmesan or Parmigiano Reggiano as I did in this case. Parmigiano Reggiano is a little expensive but I think it’s well worth it. A small portion last a while. The rind left is perfect for adding to soups or pasta sauces too.

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

A couple of tips before you start your recipe. Always save a little pasta water when to help with your sauce. Never rinse your pasta. And, always dress your pasta with some of the sauce first, then complete your final dish.

Here’s the recipe!! Enjoy

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

Print Recipe
Coursedinner, Lunch, Main Course
CuisineItalian
KeywordItalian Food, meatballs, spaghetti, spaghetti and meatballs
Servings4 servings

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 2 links Italian Sausage or 1/2 pound ground (I used hot)
  • 1 cup Italian Bread Crumps (I used Progresso)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh Italian Parsley (Use dried if you don't have fresh)
  • 1 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 5 small eggs or 3 large or extra large
  • 1 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 tbsp olive oil for frying the meatballs

For the Final Spaghetti and Meatballs

  • 1 recipe Meatballs
  • 2 jars of your favorite marinara sauce or other sauce-
  • 1/2 jar water
  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • Parmesan or Parmigiano Reggiano for serving

Instructions

  • Combine all of the ingredients for the meatballs (except he olive oil) and using your hands, thourly combine. Form each meatball in a unifor 1/2 cup portion.
  • Heat the oil in a large skillet. When medium hot add the meatballs. Cook on one side, then turn to all other sides to brown each side.
  • Meanwhile, empty the jars of marinara into a large saucepan. Add 1/2 jar of water to the sauce. Heat the sauce. As the meatballs are browned, add them to the sauce. When all the meatballs have been removed and added to the sauce, I ladle some of the sauce into the skillet and deglaze the pan, then pour that into the sauce with the meatballs.
  • Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for about an hour. you could lessen the time, but I really like the meatballs to absorb the sauce.
  • Bring a large pot of water heavily salted to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for about 20 minutes. I like my pasta fairly sauce, more than al dente but cook the spaghetti to your desired doneness.
  • When the spaghetti is done, using tongs, remove the spaghetti to a large serving bowl, reserving some of the pasta water. You can drain the pasta, do not rinse, but reserve some of the water. Ladle some of the sauce over the spaghetti adding a little of the pasta water and toss until well coated. Plate the pasta into 4 serving plates. Top with some of the meatballs, more of the sauce and the parmesan cheese. Bon Appetite.

Filed Under: Pasta Tagged With: meatballs, pasta, Spaghetti, spaghetti and meatballs

Simple Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden

July 2, 2019 by Becky Spoon

Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the GardenJump to Recipe
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden

This Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden literally has 6 ingredients. Extra virgin olive oil, garlic, fresh tomatoes from the garden, parmigiana- reggiano, the pasta and some fresh basil. It is seasoned simply with a little salt and pepper, then a little pasta water to bring everything together! I honestly wanted to keep eating it!!

Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden

The tomatoes I used were Sun Gold cherry tomatoes, but you can use any of the small tomatoes. There’s champagne tomatoes, grape tomatoes, any of these will work in this recipe. If you decide to add some of these delicious cherry tomatoes to your garden here’s a link to give you names for the best types: http://www.veggiegardener.com/best-cherry …

Simple Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden

I started with a little extra virgin olive oil and garlic, then added the tomatoes and cooked them until they were busting.

Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden

Finishing with pasta water helps make this delicious sauce! Add the spaghetti to the pan, toss a few times and you’re finished! Simple!

Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes from the Garden

Eating this dish alone with a piece of good garlic bread or French bread is enough! However, if you want a salad, try my Caesar salad. Here’s a link for that: https://the2spoons.com/a-classic-beautiful-caesar-salad/

Hope you enjoy this simple recipe! The recipe is for two, however, just double or triple and the delicious flavors will remain the same!

Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes

Print Recipe
Coursedinner, Lunch, Main Course
CuisineItalian
Keywordcherry tomatoes, spaghetti, spaghetti with fresh tomatoes, sun gold tomatoes, tomatoes
Servings2 Servings

Ingredients

  • 2 Cups cups whole cherry tomatoes (I used Sun Gold)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more to drizzle on finished dish
  • 1/4 cup Parmigiana Reggiana Cheese finely, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano grated plus more for finishing the dish
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • pasta water
  • fresh basil, torn
  • 8-16 oz spaghetti

Instructions

  • Bring a pot of water that has been salted to a boil. Cook your pasta to your desired firmness! I actually like mine softer than al dente.
  • While your pasta is cooking, wash and pat dry your tomatoes. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant but don’t burn. Add your tomatoes and cook until they have burst and a sauce begins to form. Shake the pan while cooking to insure all sides are cooking.
  • When your tomatoes have burst and your sauce begins to make add a little salt and pepper to taste.
  • Don’t drain your pasta, but remove your pasta with a spider or tongs from the pasta water into your skillet with the sauce. Add a ladle of pasta water and combine your pasta with the sauce and cook for a minute or two. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and combine gently adding more pasta water if needed. Turn the heat off and toss in some torn basil leaves.
  • Plate your spaghetti and spoon over the remaining sauce. Add some Parmesan strips, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and more basil if desired. Bon Appetite!

Filed Under: Pasta Tagged With: cherry tomatoes, fresh tomatoes, pasta, Spaghetti, spaghetti with fresh tomatoes from the garden, sun gold tomatoes, tomatoes from the garden

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