Are you looking for a fun, flavorful, and incredibly easy dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This pasta and hot dog recipe is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend lunch. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Get ready to whip up this simple yet satisfying dish in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (any shape you like – penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work great!)
- 8-10 hot dogs, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
Step 2: Sauté the Hot Dogs and Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes more. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Add the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, and basil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the hot dog sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using).
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Hot Dog Choice: Use your favorite kind of hot dog! Beef, pork, chicken – it all works wonderfully in this recipe.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Creamy Pasta and Hot Dogs: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Pasta and Hot Dog Bake: Transfer the pasta and hot dog mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary based on the ingredients you choose. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy pasta and hot dog recipe is a fantastic quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option that's adaptable to your preferences, and a delicious dish the whole family will enjoy. It’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!