This Southern classic is heartier than traditional Italian spaghetti, made with seasoned ground meat, bell peppers, onions, and a slightly sweet, savory sauce.
⏱ Prep Time
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Prep: 15 minutes
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Cook: 35–40 minutes
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Total: ~55 minutes
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Servings: 6
🍳 Ingredients
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1 lb spaghetti noodles
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1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half sausage)
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp sugar (optional, Southern-style)
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1 tsp seasoned salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tbsp oil
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook Pasta
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Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Meat
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Heat oil in a large pot or skillet.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned.
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Drain excess fat.
3. Add Veggies
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Add onion and bell pepper.
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Cook until soft, then add garlic (30 seconds).
4. Make Sauce
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Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and seasonings.
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Simmer 20–25 minutes.
5. Combine
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Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce.
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Toss well until fully coated.
6. Serve
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Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
🍽 Flavor & Texture
✔ Thick, hearty sauce
✔ Savory and slightly sweet
✔ Comfort-food style
✔ Family-friendly
⭐ Tips & Variations
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Spicy: Add red pepper flakes
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Cheesy: Top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan
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Extra Southern: Add a splash of ketchup
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Baked version: Top with cheese & bake 375°F for 20 minutes
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Meat swap: Use turkey or smoked sausage
📊 Nutrition (Approx per serving)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 26g
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Carbs: 60g
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