There’s something comforting about a hearty plate of Old-School Spaghetti, reminiscent of family dinners and lazy weekends spent with loved ones. This dish brings together tender pasta, flavorful vegetables, and a delightful cheese sauce that creates a warm, inviting meal. Perfect for any occasion—from a busy weeknight to a casual gathering with friends—this recipe has a special place in my heart. Let me take you through my journey of rediscovering this classic, and share the joy it brings to the dinner table.
Why you’ll love this dish
Old-School Spaghetti isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that promise to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. This dish is perfect for when you need to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. It’s quick to make, and the kids will love the cheesy goodness mixed with juicy ground beef and garden-fresh vegetables. Weeknight dinners can often become a chore, but this recipe transforms cooking into an enjoyable experience.
"This is my go-to for family gatherings! The kids adore it and I love how easy it is to prepare. Always a hit at the table!"
Preparing Old-School Spaghetti
Creating this Old-School Spaghetti is a simple yet fulfilling process. You’ll start by cooking the pasta and preparing a delightful medley of sautéed vegetables. Then, everything comes together in layers of cheesy goodness topped with a rich meat sauce. It’s a straightforward recipe, but the results are undeniably impressive!
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for your Old-School Spaghetti:
- 454 grams rotini pasta (or elbow or spaghetti)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion (white or yellow), chopped
- 227 grams mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 794 grams red pasta sauce
- 3/4 liter grated cheese (Mozzarella, Italian Blend, or Cheddar), divided
- 1/4 cup sour cream
You can easily substitute the pasta type or cheese based on your preference or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap for gluten-free pasta if needed or adjust the cheese to fit your dietary needs!
