Chicago Spaghetti
This Chicago Spaghetti features thick noodles tossed in a rich meat sauce made with Italian sausage, ground beef, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and Parmesan. It is hearty, flavorful, and ideal for a satisfying family dinner.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 c onion diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 c green bell pepper small diced
- 28 oz crushed tomato
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 2 c water
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/3 c Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb thick spaghetti
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef. Cook, using a wooden spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces, until browned and fully cooked.
Add the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the Tomato Paste and Seasonings
- Stir in the tomato paste, granulated sugar, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Add the Tomatoes and Water
- Pour in the crushed tomato and water. Stir thoroughly, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
Simmer the Sauce
- Reduce the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have developed.
Adjust the Seasoning
- Taste the sauce and season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese is incorporated.
Serve
- Serve hot, with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
To make this Chicago Spaghetti gluten free, substitute the thick spaghetti with a certified gluten-free spaghetti or another gluten-free pasta shape that holds sauce well. Check the labels on the Italian sausage, tomato paste, crushed tomato, Parmesan cheese, and dried seasonings to confirm they are gluten free and free from cross-contact risks. The rest of the ingredients are typically naturally gluten free, but label-checking is especially important when preparing the dish for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.