This is known as 'Church Supper' and it's always a hit among my church friends!

There’s something so comforting about a hearty plate of spaghetti, especially when shared with loved ones at a church supper. This Church Supper Spaghetti recipe using beef is not only delicious, but it’s also a wonderful way to bring people together. The rich, meaty sauce combined with tender pasta is sure to become a favorite, and it's simple enough to prepare for a crowd. Whether you’re planning a community gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is a must-try.

This spaghetti pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread. You might also enjoy serving it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. For a touch of indulgence, offer some grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on the table. And don’t forget a nice pitcher of iced tea or lemonade to round out the meal!

Servings: 8

1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
1 bay leaf
1 pound spaghetti
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.

2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water.

4. Add the basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, sugar, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.

5. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain well.

7. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Serve the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage to change up the flavor. For picky eaters, consider blending the sauce to a smoother consistency to hide the veggies. If you want to make it extra special, serve with meatballs or sautéed mushrooms. And for a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef and add some chopped zucchini or other favorite veggies.