easy dirty spaghetti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best easy dirty spaghetti recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – easy dirty spaghetti! This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a hit with the kids.

I love how quick and easy it is to make, and the best part is that it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a family dinner or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe never fails to deliver.

The key to this recipe is the technique of cooking the spaghetti with some oil and garlic, which gives it that amazing flavor. I’ve tried making it without this step, but trust me, it’s worth taking the extra minute to get it right.

The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. My kids love helping me cook this recipe, and they always ask for seconds (or thirds!)

It’s become a tradition in our household, and I’m so glad I can share it with you now.

Easy Dirty Spaghetti

4.9 from 1089 votes

A quick and flavorful spaghetti dish with a rich, savory sauce made from pantry staples. This recipe delivers a satisfying meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz spaghetti
1 tbsp salt

For the Dirty Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the spaghetti, then cook until al dente according to package directions, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
6Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.
7Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes.
9Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
11Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
12Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it bubble gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
13Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat.
14If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
15Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version.

This easy dirty spaghetti recipe is a staple in our household, and I know it will be in yours too! It’s perfect for family gatherings or just a quick weeknight meal.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish. The leftovers are just as delicious reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.

I like to store mine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dirty Spaghetti

Q: What’s the difference between dirty spaghetti and regular spaghetti?

Dirty spaghetti is essentially the same as regular spaghetti, but with the addition of some oil and garlic. This gives it a richer flavor and makes it more satisfying to eat.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?

You can use other types of pasta, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Spaghetti works best because of its long shape and texture.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you don’t add any meatballs or sausage.

Q: How do I store leftover dirty spaghetti?

You can store leftover dirty spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

Q: Can I reheat dirty spaghetti in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat dirty spaghetti in the microwave. Simply place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.

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