Greek Style Spaghetti

Greek Style Spaghetti is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish that brings together the rich, savory essence of Greek cuisine. With two delicious variations—one featuring a spiced meat sauce (Makaronia me Kima) and the other highlighting fresh vegetables, feta, and olives—this versatile recipe is perfect for quick dinners or impressive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines classic Greek flavors with comforting pasta
• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in about 30 minutes
• Flexible for meat lovers and vegetarians alike
• Full of bold, aromatic spices and fresh ingredients
• Great for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meat Sauce (Makaronia me Kima)

• Spaghetti
• Ground beef or lamb
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Red wine
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato paste
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground allspice
• Bay leaf
• Dried oregano
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper

For the Meatless Mediterranean Style

• Spaghetti
• Cherry tomatoes
• Kalamata olives
• Fresh spinach
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Feta cheese
• Lemon juice or red wine vinegar
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

Option 1: Greek Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
3. Stir in cinnamon, allspice, oregano, sugar, and bay leaf.
4. Pour in red wine and cook for 1–2 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 25 minutes until thick.
6. Cook spaghetti until al dente, then toss with the meat sauce.

Option 2: Mediterranean Vegetable Style

1. Cook spaghetti and reserve some pasta water.
2. In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add cherry tomatoes.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Toss in cooked spaghetti, olives, lemon juice or vinegar, and seasonings.
5. Stir in crumbled feta and fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

• Makes: 4 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20–30 minutes
• Total time: 30–40 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb
• Add roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant
• Make it vegan by skipping feta or using plant-based alternatives
• Turn it into a baked spaghetti casserole with layers of sauce and cheese
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes

Storage/Reheating

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days (meat version) or 4–5 days (vegetarian version)
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals
• Freeze the meat sauce separately for up to 3 months

FAQs

What is Makaronia me Kima?

It’s a traditional Greek spaghetti dish topped with a rich, spiced meat sauce featuring cinnamon and other warm spices.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Is the veggie version served hot or cold?

It’s typically served warm, but it also tastes great at room temperature or chilled.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely. Both the meat and veggie sauces can be made ahead and stored for a quick meal.

How do I avoid watery sauce?

Simmer the meat sauce uncovered to reduce moisture. Drain tomatoes well in the veggie version.

What are good side dishes for this?

Greek salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or tzatziki are excellent sides.

Can I add cheese to the meat version?

Yes, grated Parmesan, kefalotyri, or feta works wonderfully.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, skip the cheese and use plant-based protein if desired.

What wine pairs well with Greek Style Spaghetti?

A medium-bodied red like Agiorgitiko or a crisp white like Assyrtiko pairs beautifully.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Add more or less cinnamon and allspice in the meat version, or use crushed red pepper in the veggie version.

Conclusion

Greek Style Spaghetti is a delicious fusion of hearty pasta and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Whether you choose the aromatic meat sauce or the fresh vegetable version with feta and olives, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of Greece to your table.

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