Southern Style Spaghetti: A Comforting Classic

If you're looking for a rich, hearty, and flavorful twist on classic spaghetti, Southern-style spaghetti is the dish for you! This soul-warming comfort food brings together bold seasonings, a meaty sauce, and a touch of Southern charm to create a meal that’s perfect for family dinners.

Unlike traditional Italian spaghetti, Southern-style spaghetti is packed with ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and a hint of sweetness, making it a unique and unforgettable dish. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious Southern favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Southern Flavors – A rich and hearty tomato-based sauce.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, big taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for weeknight dinners and potlucks.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples for an affordable meal.

Ingredients

To make the best Southern-style spaghetti, you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (for extra Southern flair)
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth (if needed for consistency)
• 12 oz spaghetti noodles
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but highly recommended!)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
5. Add Worcestershire sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Creole seasoning.
6. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Toss the cooked spaghetti noodles into the sauce and stir until well-coated.
2. For extra Southern flair, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
4. Serve hot and enjoy your Southern-style spaghetti!

Tips for the Best Southern-Style Spaghetti

• Let It Simmer – The longer the sauce simmers, the better the flavor!
• Make It Cheesy – Adding cheddar cheese gives it a unique Southern twist.
• Add More Meat – Swap or mix ground beef with ground sausage for even more flavor.
• Spice It Up – Adjust the Creole seasoning and red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Make It Ahead – This sauce tastes even better the next day!

What to Serve with Southern-Style Spaghetti

• Cornbread – A Southern staple that pairs perfectly with this dish.
• Garlic Bread – A classic side to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Collard Greens or Green Beans – Adds a touch of Southern tradition.
• Sweet Tea – Because no Southern meal is complete without it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients (except pasta) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in cooked spaghetti before serving.

Can I Freeze Southern-Style Spaghetti?

Absolutely! Store the sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat and mix with fresh-cooked spaghetti.

Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Of course! This sauce works well with penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni.

Conclusion

Southern-style spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that blends classic pasta with bold, rich flavors of the South. With savory meat, flavorful sauce, and a hint of sweetness, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Try this easy and delicious recipe today, and let us know how much you love it! 🍝✨