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Chicago Spaghetti

Chicago Spaghetti

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Ingredients

For the Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional but authentic!)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup red wine (optional)

For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Brown the Meat
    In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
  2. Build the Flavor
    Add onion, garlic, and green pepper. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Simmer the Sauce
    Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, herbs, and wine. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Combine with Pasta
    Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until fully coated. You can stop here for a saucy, stovetop version — or go one step further for baked Chicago-style perfection.
  5. Bake It Up (Optional but Recommended!)
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture into a large baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  6. Serve and Enjoy
    Garnish with fresh parsley, slice a piece of garlic bread, and dig in!

Why You’ll Love It

Chicago Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, cheesy, and soul-satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Each bite delivers that deep, meaty flavor that feels like a hug from the Windy City itself.

Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or just love good food with attitude, this recipe will become a new favorite at your table.

 

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