Growing up, we didn’t always have everything we needed for a traditional spaghetti dinner. But my mom had a way of turning “a little bit of this and that” into something special. She could open the pantry, pull together a few humble ingredients, and somehow create a meal that brought everyone running to the table.
This dish was born out of those moments — simple, resourceful, and full of love. It became a staple not just in our home, but all over our Oak Cliff neighborhood. Neighbors would stop by, smell that rich tomato sauce simmering, and ask, “What’s cooking today?” Before long, everyone knew about Mom’s famous spaghetti dinner — hearty, comforting, and totally unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 2 lb ground chuck
- 1 large bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried basil (or fresh, if you have it)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 8 oz tomato puree
- 1 can (11 oz) shoepeg corn
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 teaspoons Slap Yo Mama seasoning (or Lawry’s, or your favorite all-purpose blend)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Veggies
In a large skillet, cook the ground chuck along with the diced bell pepper and onion until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and a bit of Slap Yo Mama seasoning for flavor. Drain the excess grease. - Boil the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. - Make the Sauce
In a large pot over medium heat, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato puree, shoepeg corn, dried basil, and remaining seasoning. Bring everything to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. - Combine Everything Together
Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the sauce. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow all those beautiful flavors to meld together. - Add the Pasta
Stir in the cooked macaroni and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust your seasonings if needed. - Serve and Enjoy!
Dish it up warm and serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Recipe Variations
Want to put your own twist on this classic? Try one of these easy variations:
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or Italian sausage for a richer, bolder flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture and nutrients.
- Cheesy Touch: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar just before serving for a creamy, gooey finish.
- Add Some Heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
- Switch the Pasta: Penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta work great too.
Pro Tips for the Best Flavor
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning to your liking as you cook.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will continue to absorb sauce after mixing, so don’t overcook it.
- Let It Rest: Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors come together.
- Top It Off: Garnish with fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and that’s a big if), here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
- Cool Down: Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing.
- Airtight Storage: Place in airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date!
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout. Add a splash of water or tomato sauce if needed to loosen it up.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Oak Cliff Spaghetti Dinner with:
- Warm garlic bread or Texas toast.
- A crisp garden salad with Italian dressing.
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for that final touch.
A Taste of Home
This Oak Cliff Spaghetti Dinner is more than just a recipe — it’s a story of creativity, resilience, and love. It reminds us that great food doesn’t require fancy ingredients — just heart, family, and the joy of sharing a good meal together.
So go ahead and make a big pot. You might just start a new family tradition of your own.
