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Chilighetti Recipe

  • Kim
  • 36 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

This easy spaghetti recipe combines a rich tomato base, seasoned ground beef, and hearty beans for a comforting, flavor-packed meal.

Chilighetti
Chilighetti

This recipe comes from my mother-in-law, who was always trying new recipes. While we don’t remember ever having this one with her, we’re pretty sure she and her sister tested it out and it’s a good one! If you love chili and spaghetti, this easy, flavor-packed combination is the perfect comfort meal.


If you’re questioning this recipe, put that aside and give it a try because this hearty, dish could become one of your go-to easy recipes. It’s a delicious combination of a classic chili recipe and spaghetti, creating a rich, tomato-based sauce loaded with ground beef, kidney beans, and just the right blend of spices. This dish is a great way to serve up something warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying.


What You Need

  • Olive Oil

  • Ground Beef

  • Onion

  • Tomato Juice

  • Worcestershire Sauce

  • Chili Powder

  • Garlic Powder

  • Cumin

  • Salt

  • Black Pepper

  • Kidney Beans

  • Spaghetti 


Tips for Making the Best Chilighetti

  • The flavors get even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

  • It reheats well, so it’s ideal for busy schedules and quick lunches.

  • Serve it with simple sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

  • Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes to adjust the spice level to suit different tastes.


More Delicious Dinner Ideas

How to Make Chilighetti

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Start by heating 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown ground beef (1 pound) until fully cooked. Be sure to drain excess grease for the best sauce texture. Add 1 cup chopped onion (or one large onion, if desired) and stir with a wooden spoon and cook over medium heat until softened.

All ingredients combined and ready to bake.
All ingredients combined and ready to bake.

Step 2: Stir in 3 cups tomato juice, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and mix well. Add 1 can kidney beans and mix well.  Break 1 and1/2 cups raw spaghetti into 2-inch pieces and stir it directly into the mixture.


Step 3: Transfer to a 2 quart casserole dish coated with nonstick cooking spray, cover, and bake for 1 hour or until bubbly around the edges. For a hands-off option, transfer everything to a slow cooker after you brown beef and let it cook on low until the flavors come together.


Serve the delicious dish hot with a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Chilighetti ready to bake!
Chilighetti ready to bake!

How to Store Chilighetti

Leftovers store nicely in an airtight container and can also be frozen for later.


Chilighetti is one of those great recipes that brings comfort and convenience together in every bite. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table. With its bold flavors and cozy feel, this dish proves that sometimes the best meals come from combining two favorites into one unforgettable dinner. It's Forkin' Good!


Click the below button to take you to the full recipe card (or for a printable recipe card) that includes nutritional information. 



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