Old-School Spaghetti

 

Old-School Spaghetti 

Ingredients:

454 grams rotini (or substitute with elbow pasta or spaghetti)

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic (from the jar)

1 medium green bell pepper, diced

1 medium onion, diced

1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini (or your chosen pasta) according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic, diced green bell pepper, and onion, and sauté until softened (about 3-5 minutes).

3. Cook the Meat:

Add ground beef (or sausage) to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.

4. Simmer the Sauce:

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.

Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Combine Everything:

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to absorb flavors.

6. Serve & Enjoy:

Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.