How to make Filipino Spaghetti
In this Filipino spaghetti recipe, the sliced hotdogs were fried separately until browned and then set aside. The ground pork was then sautéed with the aromatics and then slowly simmered with the tomato and banana sauce for 15 minutes. The browned sliced hotdogs were added afterwards at the end of cooking time. Eating this Filipino spaghetti brought back fond memories. I forgot how good and comforting this food was. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Filipino Spaghetti
To get the best flavor from your Filipino spaghetti, make sure to sauté the ground pork until it is nicely browned. This adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a bit of finely chopped chili or some red pepper flakes while sautéing. The sweetness of the banana sauce can vary by brand, so taste and adjust the tomato sauce accordingly. For a creamier texture, you can mix in a little evaporated milk or cream right before serving, which gives it a rich finish that complements the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Filipino spaghetti is often served at birthday parties and special occasions, making it a festive dish. Pair it with garlic bread for a delicious contrast. You could also serve it alongside a simple salad to balance the richness. For a traditional touch, sprinkle some grated cheese on top just before serving. If you want to make it a heartier meal, add some fried chicken or lumpia on the side. This combination creates a delightful feast that everyone will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for banana sauce?
If you can’t find banana sauce, you can use a mix of ketchup and a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness. Another option is to use a combination of ketchup and a touch of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Filipino spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and it should taste great.
Can I make this spaghetti ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the noodles separately ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve, and it’ll save you time during busy nights.
What should I serve with Filipino spaghetti?
Filipino spaghetti is often served with garlic bread or a side salad for a nice balance. It also pairs well with fried chicken for a classic Filipino meal.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making this dish?
One common mistake is not browning the ground pork enough, which can lead to a flat flavor. Also, be careful not to overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente to hold up well in the sauce.
Filipino Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles
- 3 tablespoon olive oil ,divided
- 4 hotdogs ,sliced diagonally
- 1 onion ,chopped
- 2 cloves garlic ,minced
- 1 lb lean ground pork
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 1 cup store-bought banana sauce ( banana ketchup)
- Grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti noodles in salted boiling water until tender but firm. Drain in a colander and toss with 1 tablespoon oil to prevent from sticking.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium high heat. Add sliced hotdogs and cook, stirring until brown, about 5 minutes. Drain on a plate lined with paper towel. Set aside.
- Using the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes or until onion has softened. Add ground pork and cook until juice from the meat has evaporated and the meat is brown, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato paste and banana sauce. Stir to combine and blend flavors. Reduce heat to medium, cover and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in sliced hotdogs.
- Serve sauce over spaghetti and sprinkle with grated cheese.
Nutrition
Thank you for this recipe! I made this for my family tonight and it was so easy to make. Everyone thought it was delicious! Tastes just like how my mom makes it! 😋
What is banana sauce and where can I purchase it?? What kind of hot dogs do you use???
Hi Pamela,
Banana sauce is the same as banana ketchup and you can buy this at any Filipino or Asian store. I normally use regular hotdogs that you can buy at any supermarket. Take care!
Can you please tell me what to do with the sausages after setting it aside?
Hi Jo,
In step 4, add the tomato sauce, tomato paste and banana sauce. Stir to combine and blend flavors. Reduce heat to medium, cover and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in browned sliced hotdogs.
Hi! I am not a very good cook but, how much salt and pepper do you add to this recipe. Thank you for your help!
Hi Mimi,
It is better to start with less seasoning rather than more. It is easier to add later on. Start with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper and then taste it. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Hope these help!
Easy to follow recipe!! And 3 year old daughter gave it the thumbs up!
This is my first time to cook Filipino style spaghetti. Your recipe is easy to follow, and really tasty. Thank you so much, Ms. Liza. I’d be sure to try your other recipes.
Hi An,
I am so glad you were able to try this recipe and had success with it:) Take care my friend and thanks for taking the time to write!
Never had Filipino style spaghetti, but I had an idea what it would tasted like. It came out perfect! My husband enjoyed it very much, and saved it for the next and it was gone. My parents devoured it!!
Can’t wait to make it again!
Thanks again for the recipe 🙂
You’re welcome Linda! I am glad you were able to try this Filipino spaghetti recipe 🙂 Take care and thanks for the feedback!
Thank you so much for posting this recipe! I am American and my husband is Filipino. I surprised them with this dish and it went perfectly. They loved it! THANK YOU!!!!!
You’re welcome Katy! Take care and thanks for writing your success story 🙂
Great recipe! Do you know how many calories is in each serving?
I have had Filipino spaghetti while in the Philippines, it is uniquely different from what we have here in the states. It is much sweeter and obviously the addition of hotdogs. However, the hotdogs definitely are not equal to those produced in the States. With that said… I must say that it IS good!
I want to try your recipes but I’m no good at measuring. I want to make this for my daughters party but I want to make a lot. Maybe good for 20 servings. Any advice?
You can change the settings where it says 5 servings move the bar up
Thanks for the wonderful recipe! Any idea how many calories per serving is?
I planned to make Filipino spaghetti today and i saw your Recipe,and so far so good to look at thank you for sharing your Recipe it’s big help for me.
Hi Lynn,
I hope you get to try it. Take care!
What kind of tomato sauce do you use for this recipe?
Hi Christina,
I used the regular tomato sauce (Hunt’s) for this recipe.
Hi Liza,
Your Filipino spaghetti looks so yummy. Makes me want to go home now and cook it also. Thank you for sharing so many yummy recipes.
You’re welcome Liza 🙂
Hi Liza.
I really like your yummy – Philippine recipe for spaghetti.
I just saw them, I got hungry and I have to try …
Thanks! Thanks! Thanks! 🙂
Vlada, Czech Republic
You’re welcome Vlada 🙂 Enjoy!