Corned Beef Spaghetti Recipe
**Corned Beef Spaghetti** is a delightful twist on the classic Filipino-style spaghetti, which is typically known for its sweet and savory sauce. This dish combines the hearty richness of corned beef with a slightly tangy, flavorful tomato sauce, making it a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s a comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days, family dinners, or even casual get-togethers.
In the Philippines, corned beef is a staple in many households, often served with rice or made into various dishes like corned beef hash, sandwiches, or omelets. However, this corned beef spaghetti recipe adds a unique spin by using the canned meat as the base for the sauce. The result is a deliciously savory pasta dish with an added depth of flavor, making it a great alternative to the more traditional spaghetti dishes.
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**Ingredients**
– **300g spaghetti noodles** (preferably al dente)
– **1 can (200g) corned beef** (preferably the chunky variety)
– **2 tablespoons vegetable oil**
– **1 medium onion**, finely chopped
– **4 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 large tomato**, diced
– **1/2 cup tomato sauce** (or ketchup, if you prefer a sweeter sauce)
– **1 tablespoon soy sauce** (adds a savory depth)
– **1/2 teaspoon salt** (to taste)
– **1/4 teaspoon pepper** (to taste)
– **1/4 cup water** (or beef broth for more flavor)
– **1/4 cup grated cheese** (cheddar or quickmelt, for garnish)
– **1 tablespoon sugar** (optional, if you prefer a touch of sweetness)
– **1 tablespoon butter** (optional, for a richer sauce)
– **Chopped parsley or basil** (for garnish)
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**Instructions**
**1. Cook the Spaghetti**
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Once cooked al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes), drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if you’re not immediately using it in the sauce.
**2. Prepare the Corned Beef Sauce**
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s golden and aromatic.
**3. Add the Tomatoes**
Add the diced tomato to the pan and cook it down for about 5 minutes, or until the tomato softens and begins to break down. This helps to create a fresh base for the sauce.
**4. Incorporate the Corned Beef**
Next, add the canned corned beef into the pan, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula to mix it well with the onions and tomatoes. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The corned beef will release its natural fats and flavors, which will blend with the other ingredients.
**5. Add the Sauces and Seasonings**
Pour in the tomato sauce (or ketchup), soy sauce, salt, pepper, and water (or beef broth) into the pan. Stir everything together to combine, then let it simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes. You can adjust the amount of water if you want a thinner or thicker sauce. If you like your sauce on the sweeter side, feel free to add a tablespoon of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
**6. Combine with the Spaghetti**
Once the corned beef sauce is ready, it’s time to combine it with the cooked spaghetti. Add the drained pasta directly into the pan with the corned beef mixture. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure the noodles are well-coated with the rich, savory mixture. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes, so the pasta can absorb some of the flavors from the sauce.
**7. Finish with Cheese and Butter**
For an extra layer of richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter into the sauce just before serving. It will give the sauce a velvety texture and enhance the flavor. Once well-mixed, transfer the spaghetti to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly grated cheese on top and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
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**Serving Suggestions**
Corned Beef Spaghetti is best served hot, and it’s a great dish to enjoy on its own or paired with a simple side salad or garlic bread. The savory flavors of the corned beef blend beautifully with the tomato-based sauce, while the pasta offers the perfect vehicle for all those rich and comforting flavors.
For an added touch of indulgence, you can serve it with extra cheese on top or drizzle some extra tomato sauce or ketchup if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste. If you have kids or guests who prefer more familiar flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit!
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**Tips and Variations**
1. **Vegetables:** You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas to the corned beef sauce to introduce extra flavor and nutrition. These vegetables complement the savory taste of the corned beef and add color and texture to the dish.
2. **Spicy Kick:** If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to the corned beef sauce. The heat balances well with the rich, salty flavor of the corned beef.
3. **Creamy Version:** For a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of cream or a dollop of mayonnaise. This will make the sauce smoother and add a touch of indulgence.
4. **Leftover Meat:** If you have leftover cooked meat such as roast beef, pork, or chicken, feel free to substitute it for the corned beef. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and create a unique version of the dish.
5. **Vegetarian Option:** If you’re looking for a vegetarian version of this dish, you can replace the corned beef with vegetarian or plant-based alternatives, such as lentils or tofu. You can also make the dish without meat and add more vegetables for a lighter version.
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**Why You’ll Love This Corned Beef Spaghetti**
– **Quick and Easy:** This is a simple, no-fuss recipe that doesn’t require a lot of time or ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or when you need to whip up a meal in a hurry.
– **Comforting:** The savory corned beef and rich tomato sauce create a warm, hearty meal that will satisfy your cravings.
– **Customizable:** You can adjust the flavors to suit your taste—whether you prefer it sweet, tangy, or spicy, this dish can be made to your liking.
– **Family-Friendly:** Corned Beef Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser that both adults and children will enjoy, making it a great choice for family dinners or parties.
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Corned Beef Spaghetti is a delicious fusion of Filipino comfort food with a modern twist. The combination of savory corned beef and tangy tomato sauce, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, creates a dish that’s satisfying and flavorful. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a household favorite in no time!
Canned corned beef is a pantry staple in my house. When my favorite brand goes on sale, I stock up on a few cans for home cooking.
Not only is it relatively inexpensive, it’s also easy to prepare. Other than the regular ginisa with onions and potatoes, there are so many delicious meals the potted meat can be used, such as bread, sinigang soups, frittatas, and pasta sauces.
