Filipino spaghetti is a sweet twist on the classic Italian pasta, featuring spaghetti noodles tossed in a tomato-based sauce with ground meat, sliced hotdogs, and banana ketchup for that signature sweetness. This how-to-make Filipino spaghetti at home Filipino style guide uses everyday ingredients to recreate the beloved party staple found at birthdays and gatherings across the Philippines. Adapted from American influences during post-WWII times, it incorporates local flavors like banana ketchup and cheese toppings for a uniquely Pinoy comfort food.
The unapologetic sweet Filipino spaghetti with hotdogs | SBS Food
Why This Filipino Spaghetti Recipe Stands Out
This easy homemade version balances sweetness with savory notes using banana ketchup and ground pork, without needing specialty items—substitute regular ketchup if needed. It’s kid-friendly, ready in under an hour, and perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners in Philippine homes, with optional cheese for extra indulgence.
Ingredients for Filipino Spaghetti (Serves 4-6)
Gather these accessible ingredients, many found in Filipino pantries:
- 500g spaghetti noodles
- 500g ground pork or beef
- 4-6 hotdogs, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup with sugar)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (Eden or cheddar for topping)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt, pepper, and sugar to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or carrots for added sweetness
These create the sweet-savory sauce that’s hallmark of Filipino spaghetti.
Filipino Spaghetti Recipe | The Kitchn
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Filipino Spaghetti Filipino Style
This simple method yields a crowd-pleasing dish:
- Cook the pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, tossing with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Brown the meat: Add ground pork; cook until browned, breaking it up, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in sliced hotdogs and bell pepper; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in tomato sauce, banana ketchup, soy sauce, and optional raisins. Add water if needed for consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Combine and serve: Mix cooked spaghetti into the sauce until well-coated. Top with grated cheese and let melt slightly.
Total time: About 40 minutes. Serve hot for best flavor.
For a visual walkthrough, watch this beginner-friendly YouTube tutorial on making Filipino spaghetti: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-KUKwyMcWE
Tips for the Best Filipino Spaghetti in Filipino Style
- Sweetness level: Adjust sugar or banana ketchup to match Jollibee-style sweetness—start low and taste.
- Meat texture: Use a mix of pork and beef for richer flavor; drain excess fat if oily.
- Pasta doneness: Slightly undercook noodles as they absorb sauce.
- Make ahead: Sauce improves overnight; reheat and toss with fresh pasta.
Filipino Spaghetti and Downtown Los Angeles – Tara’s Multicultural …
Variations on Filipino Spaghetti
- Vegetarian: Swap meat for mushrooms or lentils, keep hotdogs optional.
- Spicy version: Add chili flakes or fresh chilies for heat.
- Cheesy bake: Top with more cheese and broil for a gratin-style twist.
Nutritional Information for Filipino Spaghetti (Per Serving)
Based on 6 servings, this sweet pasta is indulgent but portionable. Values are approximate and based on standard ingredients; actual nutrition may vary.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal | 20% |
| Total Fat | 15g | 19% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 50mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50g | 18% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 11% |
| Total Sugars | 10g | – |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Filipino Spaghetti
What makes Filipino spaghetti different?
The sweet sauce from banana ketchup and additions like hotdogs set it apart from Italian versions.
Can I use regular ketchup?
Yes, add sugar to mimic banana ketchup’s sweetness.
Is Filipino spaghetti gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and soy sauce for a GF version.
This how-to-make Filipino spaghetti at home Filipino style recipe brings party vibes to your kitchen. Twirl up and enjoy!