Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti: A Deliciously Smoky Recipe

Philly Hostess Dip: the name alone conjures images of effortless entertaining and satisfied guests! Have you ever needed a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in minutes and disappears even faster? Look no further. This creamy, savory dip is the answer to your party prayers.

While the exact origins of Philly Hostess Dip are shrouded in a bit of mystery, its popularity likely stems from the ease with which it can be prepared using readily available ingredients, including the iconic Philadelphia Cream Cheese. It’s a modern classic, perfect for potlucks, game day gatherings, or even a casual weeknight snack. Think of it as the ultimate shortcut to deliciousness!

What makes this dip so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The smooth texture of the cream cheese combined with the zesty kick of your favorite seasonings creates a symphony of taste that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, its versatility is unmatched. Serve it with crackers, vegetables, pretzels, or even toasted baguette slices – the possibilities are endless. It’s a guaranteed hit, and I can’t wait to share my version with you!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Spaghetti:
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Barbecue Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Barbecue Meat:
• 1 pound pulled pork, cooked and shredded (Memphis style is best!)
• Alternatively, you can use smoked sausage, chopped brisket, or even ground beef.
• For Garnish (optional):
• Chopped green onions
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Pickled jalapeños

Preparing the Barbecue Sauce:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this dish – the barbecue sauce! This is where the magic happens, and it’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Trust me, the homemade sauce is worth the extra effort.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be nice and sweet, so don’t rush this step.
2. Add Garlic and Bell Pepper: Add the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper to the saucepan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the bell pepper is slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Introduce the Tomatoes: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and the can of tomato sauce. Stir to combine everything.
4. Sweeten and Tang Up: Add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to dissolve the brown sugar.
5. Umami Boost: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and yellow mustard. These add a depth of flavor that’s essential for a good barbecue sauce.
6. Spice it Up: Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). The smoked paprika is key for that authentic barbecue flavor. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
7. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and the sauce will thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, brown sugar, or vinegar to achieve your desired flavor profile. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
9. Blend for a Smooth Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the saucepan. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be very careful when blending hot liquids! If using a regular blender, make sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.

Cooking the Spaghetti:

While the sauce is simmering, let’s get the spaghetti cooked to al dente perfection. Nobody wants mushy spaghetti!

1. Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with plenty of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Salt the Water: Add a tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. This seasons the spaghetti from the inside out.
3. Cook the Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the spaghetti is al dente (firm to the bite).
4. Drain the Spaghetti: Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the spaghetti, as the starch helps the sauce cling to it.
5. Toss with Olive Oil: Return the drained spaghetti to the pot and toss with the olive oil. This prevents the spaghetti from sticking together while you prepare the final dish.

Combining the Sauce and Meat:

Now for the grand finale – bringing the sauce and the barbecue meat together! This is where the dish really starts to come alive.

1. Add the Pulled Pork: Add the pulled pork (or your chosen barbecue meat) to the barbecue sauce in the saucepan. Stir to combine, ensuring that the meat is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. Simmer Together: Let the meat and sauce simmer together for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to absorb the sauce.

Assembling the Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti:

Almost there! Now it’s time to put everything together and enjoy this delicious creation.

1. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan with the barbecue sauce and meat. Toss to combine, ensuring that the spaghetti is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti immediately.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapeños, if desired. These toppings add a burst of freshness and flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level of the sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
• Meat Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue meat. Smoked sausage, chopped brisket, or even ground beef would all be delicious in this dish.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese would be delicious.
• Add Beans: Stir in a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans for added protein and fiber.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Slow Cooker Version: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Simply combine all the sauce ingredients and the meat in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Then, cook the spaghetti separately and combine everything before serving.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave.

Enjoy your homemade Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti!

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! This Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion, a culinary adventure, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors, smoky barbecue, and comforting pasta. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover pulled pork (if you ever have any!), and it’s a fantastic dish to bring to potlucks, barbecues, or even just a cozy weeknight dinner.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the unique combination of sweet, tangy barbecue sauce with the savory richness of the meat and the satisfying chew of the spaghetti. It’s a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, comforting and surprising. The slight kick from the optional cayenne pepper adds a delightful warmth that balances the sweetness perfectly. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find your perfect flavor profile. A Carolina-style vinegar-based sauce would add a tangy twist, while a Kansas City-style sauce would bring even more sweetness and smokiness. You could also swap out the pulled pork for shredded chicken or even smoked sausage for a different protein punch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a complete meal, serve this Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti with a side of coleslaw and some garlic bread. The cool, creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, while the garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
* Want to add some extra veggies? Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
* For a spicier kick, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* If you’re feeling adventurous, try topping the spaghetti with some crumbled cornbread or a dollop of sour cream.
* Consider adding some crispy fried onions on top for added texture and flavor.
* For a vegetarian option, use plant-based pulled “pork” or substitute with hearty vegetables like roasted sweet potatoes and black beans, tossed in barbecue sauce.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’re going to love it as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, and it’s one that you’ll be proud to share with your friends and loved ones.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the magic of Memphis Barbecue Spaghetti. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear what you think of the recipe, what variations you tried, and how you made it your own. Leave a comment below, tag me in your photos on social media, and let’s spread the love for this amazing dish! Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see your creations! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll be happy to help. Enjoy!