Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and loved by both kids and adults. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, can be made with pantry staples, and works well with a wide range of sauces, proteins, and vegetables. Whether you keep it classic with tomato sauce or dress it up with gourmet ingredients, spaghetti is always satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti noodles
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
• Tomato paste (optional for depth)
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning or dried basil and oregano
• Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes (and tomato paste if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese and garnished with fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Meaty: Add ground beef, sausage, or meatballs for a heartier meal.
• Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes or use arrabbiata sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegan: Use a plant-based sauce and dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
• Vegetable-Packed: Add sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a vegan cream alternative for a rich tomato cream sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or sauce to loosen it. Spaghetti also freezes well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, while spaghetti noodles are traditional, you can use linguine, fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you like.

What’s the best sauce for spaghetti?

Classic marinara is popular, but meat sauce, pesto, Alfredo, or olive oil and garlic are all great options.

How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks and toss with a bit of olive oil after draining if not using immediately.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti noodles.

How do I make it more filling?

Add protein like ground meat, lentils, chickpeas, or tofu to the sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Spaghetti sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for later use.

What’s the difference between spaghetti and angel hair?

Spaghetti is slightly thicker than angel hair, which is finer and cooks faster.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, peel and chop fresh tomatoes and simmer them down, though canned is quicker and more consistent in flavor.

Should I rinse pasta after cooking?

No, rinsing removes the starch that helps sauce stick to the noodles. Just drain and use.

What can I serve with spaghetti?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables all pair well with spaghetti.

Conclusion

Spaghetti is a classic dish for a reason—simple, versatile, and always comforting. Whether you’re dressing it up with gourmet toppings or keeping it basic with tomato sauce and herbs, it’s a reliable go-to meal that never disappoints. From quick dinners to satisfying leftovers, this easy spaghetti recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Spaghetti

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Spaghetti is a classic and versatile pasta dish made with long noodles and a simple tomato-based sauce. It’s quick, comforting, and easily customizable for any taste or occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or 1/2 tsp each dried basil and oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Add meat, lentils, or tofu to boost the protein content.
• For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Don’t rinse pasta after cooking—this helps the sauce cling better.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 5mg