If you’ve ever been to a church supper or community potluck, you know the kind of spaghetti we’re talking about—generous portions, no-frills ingredients, and a rich, savory sauce that’s been simmered low and slow. This Church Supper Spaghetti is all about comfort, connection, and feeding a crowd with love. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner or just want a nostalgic meal, this dish brings warmth to every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Church Supper Spaghetti
Deep, rich sauce: Simmered with beef, garlic, and love.
Feeds a crowd: Generous portions with simple ingredients.
Perfect for leftovers: Flavors get even better overnight.
Nostalgic comfort food: Takes you back to simpler times.
Family favorite: From kids to grandparents—everyone digs in.
Ingredients for Church Supper Spaghetti
Get your gear (and your appetite) ready—here’s what goes into the magic.
Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice that holds the sauce beautifully.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
Onion: A staple for flavor; it becomes sweet and aromatic when sautéed.
Garlic: A must-have for that irresistible aroma and taste.
Ground Beef: Provides heartiness; you can swap it for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Crushed Tomatoes: The base of your sauce, bringing acidity and depth.
Tomato Sauce: Adds a smooth texture and enhances the tomato flavor.
Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making the sauce more rounded.
Dried Basil: A classic Italian herb that adds a fragrant touch.
Dried Oregano: Complements the basil and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey layer.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Optional, but they make a lovely garnish and add freshness.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients; this dish is all about making it your own!
How to Make Church Supper Spaghetti
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Church Supper Spaghetti is straightforward and fun to make. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the sauce. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! That starchy coating helps the sauce stick.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. The smell will be heavenly! Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want it browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. This keeps your dish from being greasy and lets the flavors shine.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Now it’s time to create that rich sauce! Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting sauce that’s perfect for your spaghetti.
Step 5: Combine and Transfer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce. Make sure every strand is coated in that delicious sauce. Once mixed, transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This cheesy layer is what makes this dish so irresistible! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly, golden cheese that will make your mouth water.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set a bit. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish. Now, dig in and enjoy your Church Supper Spaghetti!
Tips for Success
Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the spaghetti.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; caramelized onions add depth to your sauce.
Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking; it makes serving easier.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on flavor.
Equipment Needed
Large pot for boiling spaghetti; a deep skillet works too.
Skillet for sautéing; a Dutch oven can double as a baking dish.
Wooden spoon for stirring; a spatula is a good alternative.
9×13-inch baking dish; any oven-safe dish will do.
Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy; eyeballing works in a pinch!
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a hearty, meat-free dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in ricotta cheese with the spaghetti before baking for an extra creamy texture.
Veggie Loaded: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh twist on the classic flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
A glass of red wine, like Chianti, complements the flavors beautifully.
For a festive touch, garnish with extra fresh basil before serving.
FAQs about Church Supper Spaghetti
Can I make Church Supper Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
What can I serve with Church Supper Spaghetti?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine can elevate the meal, making it feel extra special.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze Church Supper Spaghetti! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat it in the oven for the best results.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Final Thoughts
Church Supper Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness and comfort. Each bite transports you back to those cherished gatherings, where laughter and stories flow as freely as the sauce. This dish is a reminder that cooking can be simple yet deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and savor the joy that comes from sharing a hearty plate of Church Supper Spaghetti. It’s a dish that truly nourishes the soul!
A comforting and hearty spaghetti dish perfect for church suppers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
