Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls: A Delicious Twist on Pasta!

this RECIPE

Introduction to Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls

Imagine it’s evening, quite cold outside and the kids are running to and fro. You, my friend, have a yearning for something warm and hearty but don’t want to spend hours cooking: enter my Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls – a crispy, buttery garlic bread bowl with pasta inside. A recipe that captures hearty Italian flavors and the feeling of having a special dinner for no real reason; is when this ‘ain’t no reason to spend all that time in the kitchen’ kind of dish is the perfect solution for wanting to spend time with your loved ones without spending all night in the kitchen. Yeah, right. Once they have had this dish, they will not let you forget that this has to be a regular on your repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls

Let’s be honest—life gets busy, and dinner often falls to the wayside. But these Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls take just 55 minutes from start to finish! Not only do they taste incredible, but they also elevate an ordinary weeknight meal into something extraordinary. Plus, my kids can’t get enough of the bread bowls! It’s a fun and delicious way to satisfy everyone’s cravings while making mealtimes enjoyable again.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards a delicious meal, and I promise, these Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls use a fantastic mix of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive oil: This is perfect for sautéing those aromatic onions and garlic. It adds a rich flavor to the base of your sauce.
• White onion: Diced finely, the onion brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
• Garlic: You can’t have garlic bread without garlic! Freshly diced cloves add that essential flavor punch.
• Ground beef: For a hearty meat sauce, choose ground beef with a touch of fat for more flavor. You can also substitute with turkey or plant-based alternatives if you prefer.
• Tomato puree: This thickens the sauce and enhances the tomato flavor. It’s an essential building block for any pasta sauce.
• Red wine: A splash elevates the sauce, adding complexity. Opt for a bottle you’d enjoy sipping while cooking.
• Tomato passata: This smooth, pureed tomato blend creates the foundation of our sauce. Talk about comfort in a bowl!
• Beef stock: Using beef stock instead of water boosts the savory flavors. You can swap it with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
• Worcestershire sauce: Just a pinch brings unrivaled umami. It’s a pantry hero you’ll want to keep on hand.
• Fresh basil: To brighten the sauce, this fragrant herb is a must! It adds freshness that balances the richness.
• Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that deepens the sauce’s flavor profile. If you have Italian seasoning on hand, that works too!
• Sugar: Just a half teaspoon helps round out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, it adds a nutty richness to the meat sauce. It’s perfect for that authentic Italian touch.
• Spaghetti: Long and twirly, spaghetti is the star of the show here! You can opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Crusty white rolls: These will become your garlic bread bowls! Day-old rolls are perfect for achieving that crispy texture.
• Butter: Melted butter gives the fragrant garlic mixture that beautiful finishing touch.
• Fresh parsley: Finely chopped, this adds a pop of color and a fresh taste to your garlic butter mixture.
• Garlic paste: Made from smashing garlic cloves, it enhances the buttery goodness inside the bread bowls.
• Shredded mozzarella: For the melty, gooey goodness on top of your pasta! You can swap it with provolone or cheddar if you’re feeling adventurous.

You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of this article, ready for you to print out. Get ready to dive into this flavorful journey!

How to Make Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls

Ready to dive into a delicious adventure? Making these Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls is simple and so rewarding! Follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a warm, cozy meal perfect for any weeknight.

Preparing the Meat Sauce

First up, let’s bring that sauce to life! In a spacious skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onions and cook them until they soften and turn golden. Are you smelling that? It’s a hint of the magic to come!

Next, add the garlic and give it a minute to bloom. Then it’s time to add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up, browning it until it’s no longer pink. Stir in the tomato puree and red wine, letting this mixture reduce for about five minutes. Oh, the aroma!

Now, pour in the tomato passata, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, fresh basil, dried oregano, and sugar. Allow everything to simmer on low for 25 minutes, thickening up beautifully. Lastly, stir in freshly grated parmesan for that creamy finish. That’s your meat sauce sorted!

Making the Garlic Bread Bowls

Let’s get those crusty rolls ready! Start by slicing the tops off each roll and hollowing them out gently. I like to use a small spoon for this—just scoop out the insides, leaving enough bread to hold everything in.

Now, onto the garlic butter! In a bowl, mix melted butter with garlic paste, finely chopped parsley, and some parmesan. Brush this mixture generously inside and outside of the hollowed rolls. Trust me, this step is essential; your guests will thank you for the buttery goodness!

Cooking the Spaghetti

While your sauce simmers, it’s spaghetti time! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about eight to ten minutes.

Here’s a tip: reserve a ladle of pasta water and set it aside before draining! This starchy goodness can be a lifesaver if your sauce is too thick. After draining the spaghetti, add it directly into your meat sauce. Toss everything well until the pasta is coated in that savory sauce! Talk about comfort!

Assembling and Baking

Now onto the fun part—assembling your garlic bread bowls! Fill each hollowed roll generously with the spaghetti mixture. Be sure to pile it high so every bite is delicious! Once filled, top each bowl with a handful of shredded mozzarella. Just imagine that cheesy, gooey goodness!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your filled bread bowls on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. If you want a golden finish, broil the tops for a minute or two. Keep an eye on it—cheese can burn quickly! Now, your Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls are ready to shine at the dinner table!

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente.
• Use day-old crusty rolls for optimal texture—fresh rolls may get soggy.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic butter; it’s what makes the bread bowls irresistible!
• Feel free to mix up your cheese toppings for a flavor twist.
• Let leftover sauce cool first; store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet: For cooking your meat sauce. A Dutch oven works great too!
• Large pot: Needed for boiling the spaghetti. Any heavy-bottomed pot will do.
• Baking sheet: To hold your filled bread bowls in the oven.
• Small spoon: Perfect for hollowing out the rolls. A grapefruit spoon works wonders!
• Mixing bowl: For your garlic butter mixture. A simple bowl will suffice.

Variations

• For a vegetarian option, swap ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Add sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra veggies and a pop of color.
• Try using different cheeses like feta or blue cheese for a unique twist.
• For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese.
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery kick!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Serve with a warm plate of garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks for the ultimate indulgence.
• Consider a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors.
• Garnish with extra fresh basil for a colorful and aromatic presentation.

FAQs about Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls

Can I make the garlic bread bowls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic bread bowls a few hours in advance. Just assemble the hollowed rolls as mentioned, and store them covered until you’re ready to fill and bake. This makes dinner stress-free!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Any leftover Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just note that the bread may lose some of its crispiness overnight. Reheat in the oven for better texture.

Can I use a different type of bread for the bowls?

Sure thing! While crusty white rolls are ideal, consider using sourdough or ciabatta rolls. Just ensure they can hold the filling without turning soggy.

What should I serve with my Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls?

These bowls are hearty on their own, but a light side salad or some roasted vegetables pair wonderfully. They provide a nice balance to the richness of the pasta and bread.

Are Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls gluten-free?

They can be! Simply use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure the rolls you choose are gluten-free as well. You’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors without any gluten!

Final Thoughts

Creating Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls is more than just preparing dinner; it’s about sharing a joyful culinary experience with your loved ones. Each bite bursts with flavors, and the laughter around the table is the true reward. I love how these bowls bring together comfort and fun, making even the busiest nights feel special. As you gather around with family or friends, you’ll not only savor deliciousness but also create lasting memories. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful dish. Trust me, you’ll relish every moment and every garlic-infused bite!

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