Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Prepare the Bread Bowls: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a serrated knife, carefully cut a circle out of the top of each loaf of bread, leaving a 1-inch border. Remove the bread from the center, creating a bowl shape. Reserve the removed bread for dipping, if desired.
- Garlic Butter Application: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture inside each bread bowl, ensuring the bottom and sides are well coated.
- Bake the Bowls: Place the prepared bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the garlic butter is melted and the inside of the bowls are lightly toasted. This step is crucial for creating a moisture barrier.
- Prepare the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Prepare the Spaghetti Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan with the spaghetti sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Assemble the Bowls: Carefully fill each baked garlic bread bowl with the spaghetti and sauce mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use a dense Italian bread loaf. Ensure the spaghetti sauce is thick to prevent the bread bowl from becoming soggy. Serve immediately after assembling. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the spaghetti sauce. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables or use a plant-based meat substitute. Store leftover spaghetti separately from the bread bowls to prevent sogginess.
