Relive the good old days with this nostalgic School Cafeteria Spaghetti recipe. Simple and comforting, it’s perfect for a taste of childhood.

Introduction

School Cafeteria Spaghetti is a dish that brings back fond memories of simpler times. This classic recipe captures the essence of those familiar cafeteria lunches, with its hearty sauce, tender pasta, and just the right amount of seasoning. While it may not be gourmet, there’s something undeniably comforting about this dish. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will enjoy, especially if you’re craving a nostalgic meal that reminds you of your school days. Let’s dive into how to recreate this beloved School Cafeteria Spaghetti at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
2. Drain Fat:
   • Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Add Sauces and Seasonings:
   • Pour in the spaghetti sauce and tomato sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

6. Cook Pasta:
   • While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until well coated.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the spaghetti topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Prepare

Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic. Add sauces and seasonings, then simmer. Cook the spaghetti and toss it with the sauce. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

2. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, the sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

5. What can I serve with this spaghetti?

Garlic bread and a simple green salad are great accompaniments to this dish.

Conclusion

School Cafeteria Spaghetti is a timeless classic that brings back warm memories of school lunches and comforting meals. This simple recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner. The hearty meat sauce, combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with this delicious School Cafeteria Spaghetti!