spaghetti with marinara recipe

spaghetti with marinara recipe

The Best spaghetti with marinara recipe

I have been making spaghetti with marinara sauce for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to please my family. The dish originated in Italy, where it was made with fresh tomatoes and herbs.

I love how the sauce simmers down to create a rich and tangy flavor that complements the long, thin strands of spaghetti perfectly. When I cook spaghetti with marinara sauce, I like to use high-quality ingredients like fresh garlic and olive oil to give it an extra boost of flavor.

My kids love helping me stir the sauce and watching it simmer on the stovetop. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday gathering.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings or add-ins. As an added bonus, this recipe is also relatively healthy compared to other pasta dishes, thanks to the abundance of vegetables and lean protein from the tomatoes.

In fact, one serving of this recipe contains over 20% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C! I also appreciate how versatile this recipe is – you can serve it as a main course, side dish, or even as a base for other recipes like lasagna or cannelloni.

My family and I have enjoyed countless meals made with this simple yet delicious recipe over the years.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

4.8 from 1706 votes

A classic Italian dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich, homemade marinara sauce. The sauce is simmered with garlic, onions, and herbs for a deep, savory flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinara Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)

For the Pasta

1 pound spaghetti
Salt for pasta water
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
6Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
7Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using.
8Stir in the tomato paste if desired for a thicker sauce.
9Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
10Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
11The sauce should be rich and aromatic with a deep red color.
12Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the marinara sauce.
13Toss well to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
14Cook over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some sauce.
15Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
16Enjoy while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet or saucepan
Colander
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter at the end. You can also use canned whole tomatoes and crush them by hand for a chunkier texture. Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce Works

This spaghetti with marinara sauce is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

You can add meatballs or sausage for added protein, or go vegan by using plant-based alternatives instead. The possibilities are endless!

And don’t forget – leftovers make great lunches or dinners throughout the week.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

Q: What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?

In general, you want to use high-quality tomatoes that are rich in flavor and texture. Look for tomatoes that are heavy for their size and have a deep red color. Fresh tomatoes work best for this recipe, but you can also use canned or frozen tomatoes if you don’t have access to fresh ones.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the marinara sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the flavors may not be as vibrant as they would be if you made it fresh.

Q: How do I store leftover spaghetti with marinara sauce?

You can store leftover spaghetti with marinara sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, make sure to stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional spaghetti?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional spaghetti if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Q: How do I prevent the marinara sauce from becoming too thick?

To prevent the marinara sauce from becoming too thick, make sure to stir it occasionally while it’s simmering on the stovetop. You can also add a little bit of water or wine if you notice it becoming too thick.

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