Merry Christmas

Representative Jill Ford
Dec 23, 2025
3 min read

As the holiday season fills our homes with warmth and joy, I want to take a moment to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. This time of year is perfect for gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. To add a special touch to your celebrations, I am excited to share my family's favorite spaghetti recipe. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that has brought comfort and smiles to many holiday tables.

Whether you are hosting a festive dinner or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy after a day of holiday activities, this spaghetti recipe is sure to please. It combines rich tomato flavors with a blend of spices and a hint of sweetness, making it a standout dish that’s easy to prepare and share.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make this spaghetti recipe, gather the following ingredients:

3 pounds of ground round (ground beef)
2 cans of tomatoes with peppers and onions
2 cans of tomatoes with basil and oregano
1 large can crushed tomatoes
2 medium cans tomato sauce
1 jar chili sauce
1 can of fire-roasted tomatoes
1 small jar of picante sauce
1 to 2 packets of Thick and Zesty Spaghetti Seasoning (Kroger brand recommended)
3 Tablespoons brown sugar to taste
Garlic and seasoning to taste
1 box (16 oz.) thin spaghetti noodles, cooked

Each ingredient adds a unique layer of flavor, creating a sauce that is both rich and balanced. The combination of different canned tomatoes brings depth, while the picante and chili sauces add a subtle kick. Brown sugar rounds out the acidity, and garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare the spaghetti sauce:

Brown the Ground Round
In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground round over medium heat until it is fully browned. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat.
Add Garlic
Add garlic to the browned meat according to your taste preference. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine Tomato Ingredients
Pour in the can of tomatoes with peppers and onions, the can of tomatoes with basil and oregano, the fire-roasted tomatoes, and the medium can of tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
Mix in Sauces and Seasoning
Add the small jar of picante sauce and the jar of chili sauce. Sprinkle in 1 to 2 packets of the thick and zesty spaghetti seasoning. Stir thoroughly to blend all flavors.
Add Brown Sugar
Add brown sugar gradually, tasting as you go, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Usually, 1 to 2 tablespoons work well, but adjust to your preference.
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, cook your spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce on top. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.

Tips for a Perfect Holiday Spaghetti

Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a stronger, fresher flavor compared to garlic powder.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of picante and chili sauces.
Simmer Longer: For a richer taste, let the sauce simmer for up to an hour on low heat.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and reheat gently before serving.