Authentic Family Spaghetti Recipe

In the realm of culinary traditions, few dishes hold as much significance as the cherished family spaghetti recipe. Passed down through generations, each iteration carries with it a legacy of flavor and nostalgia. Here, I share with you my rendition, a culmination of generations of refinement and culinary passion.

Ingredients:

• 454 grams of rotini (elbow or spaghetti for substitution)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 medium green bell pepper
• 1 medium onion (white or yellow)
• 227 grams mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 794 grams of red pasta sauce
• Grated cheese (Mozzarella, Italian Blend, or Cheddar)
• 60 ml sour cream

Instructions:

1. Begin by blending together the minced garlic, olive oil, and butter until smooth and well combined.
2. In a pot of boiling water seasoned with salt, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9 x 12 baking dish with butter.
4. Dice the green pepper and onion, and slice the mushrooms.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the peppers, onions, and mushrooms in the garlic-infused oil mixture for 3-4 minutes until tender.
6. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
7. Stir in the red pasta sauce and allow it to simmer while preparing the cheese mixture.
8. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
9. Layer half of the cooked pasta in the greased baking dish, followed by the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the pasta.
10. Top with the remaining pasta, followed by the meat sauce.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle grated cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Allow the spaghetti to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Indulge in the timeless flavors of this classic family recipe, where every bite is a tribute to tradition and love. Enjoy!