simple spaghetti pasta recipe

The Best simple spaghetti pasta recipe

I’ve been making this simple spaghetti pasta recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style, and I love how easy it is to make.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a quick weeknight dinner, or dress it up for a special occasion. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to get involved in the process of making this recipe.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this simple spaghetti pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. I like to serve it with a side of garlic bread and a green salad, but feel free to customize it to your taste.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so customizable – you can add your favorite toppings, from meatballs to sautéed vegetables, to make it your own. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to cook the pasta just right.

Don’t overcook it, or it’ll be mushy and unappetizing. Cook it al dente, so it still has a bit of bite and texture.

This may seem like a simple recipe, but trust me when I say that it’s all about the details. Use good olive oil, fresh garlic, and real parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Simple Spaghetti Pasta Recipe

4.8 from 1460 votes

A classic and delicious spaghetti pasta recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
1 tsp salt

For the Sauce

1 cup marinara sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4The pasta is done when it is tender but still has a slight bite.
5Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving some pasta water for adjustments.
6While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
7Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
8Be careful not to burn the garlic.
9Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11The sauce should thicken slightly and have a rich, tomatoey flavor.
12Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan with the marinara sauce.
13Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce.
14If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
15The pasta should be well-coated and glossy.
16Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can sauté some vegetables like bell peppers or onions with the garlic. You can also add cooked ground meat or seafood to make it a heartier meal. You can substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.

This simple spaghetti pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests at a dinner party. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it with different toppings and ingredients.

For example, if you want to add some protein, just toss in some cooked sausage or chicken – or go veggie-friendly with sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers instead! My family loves serving leftovers for lunch the next day – we’ll often heat up some cold spaghetti with marinara sauce and top it with grated parmesan cheese for an easy meal on-the-go.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Pasta

What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

Spaghetti is the classic choice for this recipe, but you can also use other long, thin pasta shapes like angel hair or linguine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can make this recipe with gluten-free pasta if you prefer or need to. Just be aware that gluten-free pasta can have a slightly different texture and flavor.

How long does this recipe take to make?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to an hour from start to finish, depending on how quickly you can cook the pasta and prepare the toppings.

Can I add other ingredients like meat or vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile and can accommodate any number of add-ins you like.

How do I store leftover spaghetti?

Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat until warmed through.

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