Tasty Haitian Spaghetti

If you’ve never tried Haitian spaghetti, you’re in for a delicious surprise that’s very different from your typical Italian plate. Haitian spaghetti is a vibrant, flavorful twist on the classic dish — it’s packed with bold spices, a rich tomato sauce, and often topped with ground beef or sausage that’s been cooked right into the sauce. It’s comfort food at its best, but with that unmistakable Caribbean flair that makes it truly unique.

What’s really cool about Haitian spaghetti is how versatile and family-friendly it is. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a dish for a festive gathering, this recipe hits the spot every time. The sauce is thick and rich, with hints of garlic, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers for a little kick, balanced perfectly by the softness of the pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone around the table, encouraging smiles, second helpings, and stories shared.

I remember the first time I had Haitian spaghetti — it was at a friend’s family gathering, and I was immediately hooked. The flavors were so deep and comforting, yet fresh and exciting. It’s a dish that shows how food connects culture and tradition, turning simple ingredients into something unforgettable. If you want to try something new and delicious, this Haitian spaghetti should definitely be on your list!

Why You’ll Love It

• Burst of Bold Flavors: Haitian spaghetti is loaded with a rich, savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and a touch of heat from Scotch bonnet peppers, giving every bite a delightful punch.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s familiar and comforting like traditional spaghetti, but with a unique Caribbean spin that makes it stand out and keeps you coming back for more.
• Easy to Make and Customize: Whether you prefer ground beef, sausage, or even veggies, this dish is flexible and perfect for adapting to your taste or what’s in your fridge.
• Great for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners to festive celebrations, Haitian spaghetti fits right in and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Hearty and Filling: The thick, flavorful sauce clings to the pasta perfectly, making it a satisfying meal that will keep you energized and happy.

Ingredient List

For the Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef or sausage
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, whole or sliced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles (about one standard box)
• Water for boiling
• Salt for boiling water

Ingredient Notes

• I always use fresh garlic and onion—it really makes the sauce taste vibrant and homemade.
• The Scotch bonnet pepper adds authentic heat, but you can skip it or remove it after cooking if you want less spice.
• Using ground sausage instead of beef gives the sauce extra depth and flavor—try it if you can find it!
• Don’t skip the dried thyme; it’s a key flavor that gives the sauce that unmistakable Haitian taste.
• For the spaghetti, I prefer regular pasta, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free if needed.
• Adding diced fresh tomatoes alongside the sauce helps keep it chunky and fresh-tasting.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large Pot – For boiling the spaghetti noodles. I like a heavy-bottomed one to prevent sticking.
• Skillet or Saucepan – To cook the meat and simmer the sauce. A non-stick pan works great here.
• Wooden Spoon – For stirring the sauce without scratching your pans.
• Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping onions, garlic, and tomatoes. I prefer a sharp chef’s knife for quick, clean cuts.
• Colander – To drain the cooked spaghetti easily.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups – For accurate seasoning and portioning.
• Lid for the Saucepan – To help the sauce simmer evenly and keep flavors locked in.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
• Dice the fresh tomatoes into small pieces.
• If using a Scotch bonnet pepper, rinse it and decide whether to leave it whole (for mild heat) or slice it (for more spice).

Step 2: Cook the Meat

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef or sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
• Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Pro Tip: Browning the meat well adds a deeper flavor to your sauce, so take your time and let it caramelize lightly.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the cooked meat.
• Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Pro Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning—it should smell fragrant but not bitter.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Add the Scotch bonnet pepper now if using.
• Mix everything well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

• Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid.
• Let the sauce simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Tip: Simmering slowly helps all the flavors meld together for a rich, well-balanced sauce.

Step 6: Cook the Spaghetti

• While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
• Drain the pasta using a colander.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

• Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce directly in the pan or serve the sauce spooned over the noodles.
• Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving if you left it whole.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle a little olive oil or sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible to keep the flavors bright and vibrant.
• Don’t rush the simmering step—low and slow really brings out the best taste.
• If you like it spicier, finely chop the Scotch bonnet pepper and add it earlier for more heat.
• Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning at the bottom.
• Cook the pasta just until al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve a little pasta water before draining; you can add it to the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Let the sauce rest for a few minutes before serving to deepen the flavors even more.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Beef or Sausage: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Tomato Sauce: Use crushed tomatoes or fresh tomato puree for a fresher taste.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Substitute with jalapeño or serrano peppers for milder heat.
• Pasta: Swap spaghetti for penne, fettuccine, or even elbow macaroni if you prefer.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme can replace dried thyme for a more aromatic sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or lentils for a hearty plant-based meal.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this pasta with garlic bread and a crisp green salad—it balances the richness perfectly!
• Pair it with steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for a fresh, healthy touch.
• Top with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan or crumbly feta for an extra layer of flavor.
• Add a side of fried plantains for a sweet and savory Caribbean twist.
• Serve with a simple mango salsa to brighten up the plate and add a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Store leftover Haitian spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• You can add a splash of water or broth while reheating to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to heat evenly.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooked sauce (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Haitian spaghetti different from regular spaghetti?

Haitian spaghetti is unique because of its rich, spicy tomato sauce seasoned with Caribbean spices like thyme and Scotch bonnet peppers, plus the meat is cooked right into the sauce for extra flavor. It’s a comforting dish with a bold twist!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the meat and add hearty veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even lentils. The sauce is so flavorful it works great even without meat.

How spicy is Haitian spaghetti?

It depends! The Scotch bonnet pepper adds a noticeable heat, but you can leave it whole for mild spice or remove it altogether if you prefer no heat. You can also substitute with milder peppers.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While traditional Haitian spaghetti uses regular spaghetti noodles, penne, fettuccine, or elbow macaroni work well too. Just pick your favorite pasta shape.

How long does it take to make Haitian spaghetti?

From start to finish, it usually takes about 40-50 minutes. Most of that is simmering time, so it’s a great recipe to prep and let cook while you relax.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Definitely! The sauce actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or busy days. Just reheat gently before serving.

---

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!