When it comes to comforting meals that bring families together, spaghetti is a universal favorite. But the Southern take on spaghetti adds a unique twist, blending bold flavors and hearty ingredients that reflect the culinary traditions of the South. This Southern Spaghetti recipe is a mouthwatering fusion of rich tomato sauce, savory meats, and a hint of spice, offering a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday supper, a potluck, or a weekday dinner, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef

1 pound pork sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste

1 cup beef broth (or water for a lighter sauce)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)

Water for boiling

1 tablespoon salt

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Parmesan cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

The hallmark of Southern Spaghetti is its robust and hearty sauce. Here’s how to prepare it:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Meats: Add the ground beef and pork sausage to the skillet. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Combine the Base Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.

Mix well to combine, creating a thick and flavorful base.

Add Seasonings and Broth: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the paprika, chili powder, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.

Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, prepare the spaghetti:

Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. If desired, toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Combine and Serve

Mix the Pasta and Sauce: For a cohesive dish, you can mix the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce. Alternatively, serve the sauce over the pasta for a more traditional presentation.

Garnish: Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Southern Spaghetti

Meat Selection: The combination of ground beef and pork sausage adds depth and flavor to the sauce. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.

Make It Spicy: If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for hot sausage and increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.

Vegetable Variations: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or shredded carrots for extra nutrition and texture.

Cheese Lovers: For a cheesy twist, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the sauce just before serving.

Meal Prep Friendly: This sauce freezes beautifully. Prepare a double batch and store portions in airtight containers for up to three months.

Why Southern Spaghetti Stands Out

Unlike traditional Italian spaghetti, Southern Spaghetti embraces bold and comforting flavors.

The addition of pork sausage, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce creates a smoky, savory profile that sets it apart. It’s a dish that reflects the heart of Southern cooking—warm, inviting, and made to be shared.

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your Southern Spaghetti meal, consider these pairing options:

Cornbread or Garlic Bread: A slice of warm cornbread or crispy garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up the rich sauce.

Southern-Style Green Beans: Cooked with bacon and onions, these green beans add a savory side that complements the spaghetti.

Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the spaghetti.

Sweet Tea: No Southern meal is complete without a glass of chilled sweet tea.

Making It Your Own

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to suit your family’s taste:

Swap out spaghetti for other pasta shapes like penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni.

Add a touch of cream for a rich, velvety sauce.

Incorporate your favorite spices or herbs to put your own spin on the dish.

The Heart of Southern Cooking

Southern Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition. It’s about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and creating memories. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, this recipe embodies the essence of Southern hospitality.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for two, this Southern Spaghetti recipe is sure to impress. It’s a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and a little bit of Southern charm to your table. So grab your apron and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 520

Protein: 25g

Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 60g

Fiber: 7g

Sugar: 12g

Sodium: 950mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Enjoy your Southern Spaghetti, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love a hearty, comforting meal!