Homemade Campbell SpaghettiOs MicrOs Sliced Franks Recipe: Nostalgic Flavor, Healthier Twist

Category: Pasta

Introduction

Campbell's SpaghettiOs MicrOs Sliced Franks have been a beloved convenience food for generations, offering a quick and tasty meal, especially for kids. Their iconic ring-shaped pasta, tangy tomato sauce, and sliced hot dogs create a comforting dish that's hard to resist. However, many of us wish for a healthier, homemade version that captures the same nostalgic flavor without the preservatives. This recipe not only replicates the original but also enhances its nutritional profile by using fresh ingredients and reducing sodium and sugar content.

Why make it at home? By doing so, you can customize the recipe to your taste preferences, use higher-quality ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. Plus, it's cost-effective and allows for creativity in the kitchen.

Why Make It at Home?

Making SpaghettiOs at home offers several advantages. You can control the sodium and sugar levels, use organic ingredients, and customize the recipe to suit dietary needs or preferences. It's also a fun project that can involve the whole family, teaching kids about cooking while enjoying a healthier version of a favorite meal.

Personal Anecdote

As a child, I cherished the occasional can of SpaghettiOs my mom would serve as a special treat. The cheerful rings and sweet sauce were a delight. Years later, as a parent, I wanted to recreate that magic for my kids but with a healthier twist. This journey led me to develop a homemade version that retains the nostalgic taste while being more nutritious.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:30 minutes
• **Total Time:50 minutes
• **Yield:4-6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt

Sauce:

• 2 cups (480ml) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp (30g) tomato paste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tbsp (15g) olive oil
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5g) paprika
• 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp (15g) brown sugar

Sliced Franks:

• 4-6 hot dogs (preferably low-sodium)
• Water for cooking

Instructions

• Make the Pasta Dough:

• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add eggs and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic and let rest for 10 minutes.

• Roll Out Pasta:

• Divide dough into 4 pieces. Roll each to 1/16 inch thickness. Cut into 1-inch wide strips, then form into rings, pressing ends together to seal.

• Cook Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta rings for 5-7 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Prepare Sauce:

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

• Add Tomato Mixture:

• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

• Cook Hot Dogs:

• Slice hot dogs into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Cook in boiling water for 5 minutes until heated through. Drain and set aside.

• Combine Ingredients:

• Add cooked pasta and hot dog slices to the sauce. Stir gently to coat. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Use salt-free spices and low-sodium hot dogs.
• Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
• Smoky Version: Add 1 tsp smoked paprika for depth.
• Vegan Version: Replace hot dogs with plant-based sausages and use vegan-friendly pasta.

Pro Tips

• Pasta Perfection: Ensure pasta isn't overcooked to maintain ring shape.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust thickness by adding water or simmering longer.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vinegar for brightness or herbs for freshness.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use store-bought pasta? Yes, elbow macaroni or small rings work well.
• How do I reduce sweetness? Use less brown sugar or omit it.
• Storage tips: Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
• Can I scale the recipe? Easily double or triple for larger batches.
• Dietary modifications: Adjust ingredients based on allergies or preferences.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Serve: Enjoy as a main dish or side.
• Creative Uses: Add to casseroles, stuffed peppers, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Conclusion

This homemade SpaghettiOs recipe brings back nostalgic memories with a healthier profile. It's a versatile dish that's easy to customize and perfect for families. Share your creations and enjoy the delight of a home-cooked meal!