Spaghetti with Hot Dogs- One Pot Meal

 I am not ashamed to tell you I was bit of a "geek" in school.  I think I am still a geek. :)   You would think that since I was a geek that I would have watched a show called The Big Bang Theory all these years... but I haven't.

 I recently started watching the show when it came on re-runs on TV.  I quickly became a major fan of the show.  So now you are asking yourself, what does Spaghetti with Hot Dogs have to do with a TV show?  Well one of the characters on the show (Sheldon) who is a genius has a favorite childhood meal... Spaghetti with Hot Dogs.  They spoke about this dish twice since I have watched the show and I had to try it out.  I made my version here... and to tell you the truth... It was great. :)  You can use what ever kind of hot dogs you like: beef, chicken, pork or even tofu.  Just spend a little extra money and get a good quality hot dog that is made with good ingredients.

 This is a great week night one pot dinner that comes together fast.  I also highly recommend the raw garnish of onions and peppers. It compliments the meal perfectly.

Ingredients:

1 box spaghetti cooked to al dente in well salted water.  ( I actually used linguine)

Hot Dog Spaghetti Sauce:

1 packet of hot dogs (I used good quality all beef hot dogs with no nitrates)

1 medium onion chopped  (save some for garnish)

1 green bell pepper chopped (save some for garnish)

1 large jar of prepared spaghetti sauce (ie.. Ragu, Prego etc...)

2 cloves garlic grated

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp sugar- if needed

red chili flakes to taste

salt and black pepper to taste

2Tbs canola oil

Garnish: Diced bell pepper, onions, Parmesan cheese

 Directions:

Cook pasta in well salted water according to package directions.  Drain and set aside in colander.  In the same pot you cooked the pasta, heat 2 Tbs canola oil and saute onions and bell pepper with a little salt on medium heat.

 When onions begin to soften add garlic, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil and red chili flakes. Saute for another 2 minutes.  Next add the cut up hot dogs and saute for 2 minutes.

 Next add jar pasta sauce, sugar (if needed) and adjust salt.  Simmer with lid on for 15-20 minutes on medium-low heat.  Finally add cooked pasta and toss well in sauce for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with onions and peppers. Enjoy.

Good Cook recommended tools:
"Classic" Dutch Oven With Lid, 5qt.
Stainless Steel Leaf Colander, 4 Qt 
Santoku Knife, 5"
Plastic Cutting Board, 8 X 11

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