Zippy's Spaghetti features al dente pasta tossed in a savory tomato sauce, enriched with ground beef, Italian herbs, and a sprinkle of melted cheese, presenting a hearty and comforting classic Italian dish.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
When preparing your Zippy's Spaghetti, ensure you use high-quality ground beef and fresh garlic to enhance the dish's flavor profile. The combination of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary creates a robust Italian herb blend essential for authentic taste. Using a can of crushed tomatoes with no added sugar or preservatives will keep the sauce savory and natural. Grate your own mozzarella and parmesan cheeses for optimal melting and richness in the final dish. Your homemade spaghetti from Zippy's copycat menu will deliver a hearty and comforting meal reminiscent of the original classic.
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil.
- Add spaghetti pasta and cook until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain using a colander.
- Peel and finely chop onion and garlic on a cutting board with a chef’s knife.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
- Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned, breaking up with a wooden spoon.
- Season with oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes; stir to combine.
- Simmer sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add drained spaghetti to sauce; toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Grate mozzarella and parmesan cheese using a cheese grater.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan over the spaghetti; stir until cheese melts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Use a ladle to serve hot spaghetti into bowls.
- Garnish with extra grated cheese if desired.
Substitution
Zippy's Spaghetti recipe uses traditional ground beef and crushed tomatoes, but you can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a leaner or vegetarian option. If crushed tomatoes are unavailable, canned tomato sauce or fresh diced tomatoes blended smooth can work, though this may alter the sauce's texture slightly. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano bring vibrant flavor, but dried herbs used in the recipe provide a convenient alternative. When grating cheese, combining mozzarella with parmesan adds depth, yet you can use just one type or a mix of your favorite Italian cheeses based on availability. You can control salt and seasoning levels to suit your taste, especially if you prefer a milder or spicier dish.
Tips
Ensure your pasta is *al dente* by testing it a minute before the package's recommended cooking time, as overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses texture. When browning ground beef, break it up finely with your wooden spoon to promote even cooking and prevent clumps. Reserve pasta water before draining; its starchiness helps your sauce cling better to the noodles and improve texture. Grate cheese fresh for a creamier melt and stir it into the hot spaghetti promptly to achieve a smooth, cheesy finish on your Zippy's Spaghetti.
Nutritions
Zippy's Spaghetti offers a balanced meal with carbohydrates from al dente pasta providing energy, while ground beef supplies essential protein and iron for muscle maintenance and oxygen transport. The crushed tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants that support immune function, and the olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and rosemary add flavor along with potential anti-inflammatory benefits. You can enjoy this dish as a comforting source of nutrients that combine to support sustained energy and overall health.
Storage
Store Zippy's Spaghetti in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the pasta moist and restore its texture.
Variation or Alternatives
Try swapping ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a lighter or spicier flavor profile in your Zippy's Spaghetti. You can also incorporate diced bell peppers or mushrooms during the onion and garlic saute for added texture and nutrients. Using fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried may enhance the aroma and freshness of your sauce. Consider finishing the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes to customize your flavor experience even further.
Allergies
Zippy's Spaghetti contains common allergens such as dairy from mozzarella and parmesan cheese, and gluten from the spaghetti pasta. Your meal may also trigger sensitivities to garlic and onion, which are frequent causes of digestive discomfort in some individuals. Those with beef allergies should avoid this dish due to the ground beef content.
Why this recipe?
Spaghetti from Zippy's restaurant is celebrated for its rich, savory sauce that combines a perfect blend of spices and tender ground beef, offering an authentic Hawaiian comfort food experience. Its unique taste stems from a secret recipe that balances sweetness and tanginess, making it irresistibly flavorful compared to traditional spaghetti dishes. You can recreate this beloved meal at home, capturing the essence of Zippy's signature dish while customizing ingredients to suit your taste. Making a copycat version is worth trying because it allows you to enjoy a popular local favorite anytime without the wait.