Old-School Spaghetti: A Classic Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a hearty, no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug, Old-School Spaghetti is the answer.
This dish is a nostalgic twist on traditional spaghetti, featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce with a surprise ingredient—shoepeg corn—for a subtle sweetness.
It’s the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something filling and flavorful.
With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in no time.
Ready to cook up some old-school goodness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
2 lb ground chuck
1 lg bell pepper, diced.
1 md onion, diced
1 Tbsp minced garlic.
1 Tbsp dried basil (fresh if you have it)
1 can diced tomatoes.
1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
8 oz tomato puree.
1 can shoepeg corn (11 oz)
8 oz elbow macaroni.
2 tsp Slap Yo Mama seasoning (Lawry’s or something similar).
Directions
Cook bell pepper, onion, and ground beef. Add some Slap yo Mama seasoning to taste. Drain.
Cook the elbow macaroni as the box instructs. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Mix all the other ingredients in a large pot over medium heatOnce you get a boil, add the ground beef mixture and simmer for ten minutes.
Add the pasta and simmer for 5 more minutes.
Serve and eat. Some add Parmesan cheese for a topping.
Variations & Tips for Old-School Spaghetti
Flavor Variations
Meat Variations – Swap ground chuck for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
A mix of beef and pork also adds depth.
Spice It Up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Veggie Boost – Mix in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
Cheesy Twist – Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a richer taste.
Smoky Flavor – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor.
Cooking Tips
Let It Simmer – For a richer sauce, let it simmer for 20-30 minutes before adding the pasta. The flavors meld better over time.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Since the macaroni continues to cook in the sauce, slightly undercook it before adding it in.
Make It Creamy – Stir in a little heavy cream or cream cheese for a creamy, indulgent version.
Balance the Acidity – If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to mellow it out.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Meal Prep Friendly – Make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta to prevent it from getting soggy.
Freezing Option – Freeze the sauce for up to 3 months and cook fresh pasta when reheating for best results.
Leftover Upgrade – Use leftovers as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or mix with eggs and cheese for a baked pasta casserole.
Would you like ideas for side dishes to go with it?
How to Store Old-School Spaghetti
Refrigeration (Best for Short-Term Storage)
Store in an airtight container to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.
If possible, store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy.
Freezing (Best for Long-Term Storage)
Option 1: Freeze the Sauce Only (Recommended)
Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop while cooking fresh pasta.
Option 2: Freeze with Pasta (If Needed)
If freezing the dish with pasta, undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t get mushy when reheated.
Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
Stovetop (Best Option): Reheat on medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Oven (For Large Batches): Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Would you like ideas for using leftovers in new ways?
The nutritional information for Old-School Spaghetti will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. Below is an approximate per-serving breakdown based on a standard serving size (about 1.5 cups):
Estimated Nutrition per Serving (6 servings total)
- Calories: ~450-500 kcal
- Protein: ~25-30g
- Carbohydrates: ~50-55g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Fat: ~15-20g
- Saturated Fat: ~7g
- Sodium: ~800-1000mg (varies with seasoning and canned ingredients)
- Cholesterol: ~70mg
Ways to Make It Healthier
Use leaner meat (like ground turkey or chicken) to reduce fat and calories.
Swap elbow macaroni for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fiber and protein.
Reduce sodium by using low-sodium canned tomatoes and seasonings.
Boost fiber & nutrients by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or spinach.
Would you like a more detailed breakdown based on specific dietary needs?