Name: Spaghetti Marinara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb spaghetti; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spaghetti Marinara recipe is beloved for its simplicity and fresh flavors. The marinara sauce is made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, giving it an authentic Italian taste. The pasta and sauce come together beautifully, making it an ideal option for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a comforting and delicious pasta dish without complicated steps.

Ingredients

1 lb spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the marinara sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet along with oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Once the pasta is drained, add it to the marinara sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Serve: Divide the spaghetti between plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even meatballs to make this dish more substantial.
Spicy Marinara: For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the marinara.
Vegetarian Option: You can add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
Cheese: Top your spaghetti marinara with grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or vegan cheese for a cheesy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover spaghetti marinara can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little bit of water or extra marinara sauce to keep it moist. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes for the marinara sauce?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they may need to be peeled, seeded, and chopped. You’ll also need to cook them longer to achieve the same thickness as canned crushed tomatoes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free spaghetti or any pasta alternative to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I prepare the marinara sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the marinara sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

How can I make the marinara sauce richer?

For a richer marinara sauce, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste and a splash of red wine while the sauce is simmering.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of homemade?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought marinara sauce is a convenient option. Just heat it up and toss with your cooked pasta.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?

To prevent the pasta from sticking, make sure to stir it occasionally while it’s cooking, and coat it with a little olive oil after draining.

Can I freeze leftover spaghetti marinara?

Yes, both the pasta and sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to store them in airtight containers.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can be substituted for dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried for the best flavor.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes or some finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the marinara sauce to make it spicier.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply omit any cheese toppings or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish vegan.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Marinara is the perfect dish for anyone craving a simple, satisfying, and flavorful pasta meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress your guests, this recipe delivers on both taste and ease. With its rich marinara sauce and al dente spaghetti, it’s an unforgettable classic that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Spaghetti Marinara

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Spaghetti Marinara is a classic Italian pasta dish made with a rich, tangy marinara sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Made with fresh garlic, herbs, and tomatoes, this dish is full of authentic Italian flavors and is quick and easy to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on the weekend, this simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4-6servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the marinara sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the marinara sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Serve: Divide the pasta between plates and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

To add protein, try grilled chicken, shrimp, or meatballs.
For extra spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to the sauce.
Vegetarian? Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.
Garnish with grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or vegan cheese for a cheesy twist.