What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade spaghetti is easier than you think, and it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy. You’ll love how simple it is to create a comforting meal with just a few basic ingredients. *It’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples you likely already have. *You can customize it with your favorite veggies, meats, or herbs to make it your own. *Plus, the rich, hearty flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
Recipe
Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that’s both simple and satisfying. This homemade spaghetti recipe uses a basic tomato sauce paired with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering.
- Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned; simply peel and crush them before cooking.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
This homemade spaghetti recipe provides a balanced meal with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing homemade spaghetti with crispy garlic bread—it’s the perfect way to scoop up extra sauce. A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice, light balance to the meal. These sides make the whole dinner feel complete and satisfying.
Garlic Bread Pairings
When I’m serving spaghetti, I like to pair it with garlic bread because it’s such a classic combo. The crispy, golden edges and soft, buttery center just melt in your mouth, adding a perfect crunch to every bite. I usually toast it until it’s fragrant, with just a hint of garlic and parsley. Sometimes, I sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. Crusty Italian or French bread works best, but I’ve even used baguettes in a pinch. Garlic bread soaks up the spaghetti sauce beautifully, making every mouthful feel complete. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Fresh Salad Options
Though spaghetti’s rich, saucy goodness is hard to beat, adding a fresh salad to the meal brings a crisp, revitalizing balance. I love tossing together a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a rejuvenating contrast to the hearty pasta. For something heartier, I’ll chop up romaine, throw in some grilled chicken, croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. If I’m feeling creative, I’ll mix arugula with shaved Parmesan, walnuts, and a lemony olive oil drizzle. These salads aren’t just sides—they’re the perfect complement to make the meal feel complete.
