Spaghetti with Bolognese sauce on a wooden table

Savor the Flavor with Kraft’s Spaghetti Meat Sauce Dinner

Woodley Diana

In light of the economic strain experienced across the globe in 2009, it seems fitting to label it, in a somewhat metaphorical sense, as ‘The Year of Financial Challenge.’ Many families and individuals were significantly affected by these financial pressures, prompting the need for cost-effective and filling meals – enter the concept of “Recession Meals.”

Meals designed to stretch the budget while still providing satisfactory taste and nutrition became a necessity during these challenging times. One such meal that rose to prominence was Kraft’s Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Dinner. It offered a fantastic meat-focused alternative to the more commonly used vegetarian ingredients, such as lentils, providing a delicious and economical solution for families seeking variety in their diets.

Here’s why you should consider Kraft Spaghetti Meat Sauce:

  • Budget-friendly: At a time when counting pennies was crucial, this inexpensive and hearty meal offered an economical solution for families;
  • Meat inclusion: A unique feature of this meal is its meat sauce, satisfying families looking for a non-vegetarian option;
  • Rich in flavor: Despite its low cost, Kraft’s Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Dinner does not compromise on taste.

While it’s clear that meat-rich meals have their place in the budget dining category, it’s also important to acknowledge and appreciate the nutritional value lentils and other legumes bring to our diet. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a frequent choice in cost-effective meals. That being said, the introduction of a tasty and filling meat-based option created a much-needed variety in the ‘Recession Meal’ lineup during these financially challenging times.

Crafting a Hearty Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Whip up the ultimate comfort food with this recipe for a hearty spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce. Perfect for any day of the week, the lean beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs blend together to create a mouthwatering, home-cooked meal. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

  • 1 pound of ground beef (opt for lean beef for a healthier choice);
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil;
  • 1 large onion, chopped;
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced;
  • 1 bell pepper (either green or red), chopped;
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped (optional);
  • 1 celery stick, finely chopped (optional);
  • 4 to 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced (optional);
  • 1 can of tomato paste;
  • 1 can (14 oz) of Italian-style stewed tomatoes;
  • 1 can (14 oz) of tomato sauce;
  • 1 cup of water;
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt, plus more to taste;
  • 1 bay leaf;
  • 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme;
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.

Preparation

  1. Using a large Dutch oven or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until there’s no pink left. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef and transfer to a bowl before setting it aside;
  2. Drain all but one tablespoon of fat from the pan. Add the olive oil and return the pan to the heat;
  3. Sauté the onions, carrot, celery, and bell pepper until the vegetables soften. This should take about 7-8 minutes. Be careful not to let them brown;
  4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until it releases its fragrance;
  5. Stir in the tomato paste. Cook this mix until the tomato paste begins to brown and is well mixed with the vegetables;
  6. Now, add in the slices of mushrooms and stir them in. Cook until they soften slightly. This should take around 2-3 minutes;
  7. At this stage, pour in about 1/4 cup of red wine if available. This is not mandatory but does enrich the flavor. After pouring the wine, scrape the bottom of the pan and let it cook for a few minutes to evaporate the alcohol;
  8. Finally, add the stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and salt. Bring the mix to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour. Stir occasionally;
  9. After the simmering, taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed for taste. If available, sprinkle a few tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley on top for an added freshness;
  10. Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti, top with grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Man cooking pasta in a frying pan

Freezing Stock for Future Delights

In the spirit of economical meal preparation, consider the practice of freezing stock for future culinary endeavors. Homemade stocks, whether vegetable or meat-based, can elevate the flavors of your dishes. To embark on this journey of culinary sustainability, prepare a surplus of stock during your Kraft Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Dinner preparation. Store it in airtight containers and freeze for later use. This prudent step not only minimizes food wastage but also ensures you have a flavorful foundation readily available for your next gastronomic adventure.

Conclusion

To wrap up this culinary journey, it’s clear that comfort food doesn’t always require luxury ingredients or complicated recipes. Something as simple as a plate of spaghetti with meat sauce can bring warmth and satisfaction. This recipe, stemming from economic necessity and personal adaptability, showcases how cooking can be a creative and resourceful process. Amidst financial challenges, a delicious home-cooked meal like Kraft Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Dinner can bring a sense of comfort, normalcy, and some delicious reprieve.