Old-Fashioned Spaghetti

If you’re craving that classic, comforting bowl of pasta that reminds you of family dinners and cozy nights, then this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti is exactly what you need. It’s simple, it’s nostalgic, and it’s packed with all the flavors you remember from childhood. Think perfectly cooked spaghetti topped with a rich, savory tomato sauce that’s simmered to perfection. Each bite is filled with love, and the best part? It’s so easy to make that even on the busiest nights, you’ll still have time to sit down and enjoy a plateful of pure, unadulterated comfort. Trust me, you’re going to want seconds.

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Spaghetti

Here’s why this recipe is going to be your new favorite:

Comfort in a Bowl: This spaghetti recipe is the epitome of comfort food. There’s something about a plate of perfectly cooked pasta with rich, savory tomato sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s like a big, warm hug on a plate!

Simple and Satisfying: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours to make. The best part? No fancy techniques—just honest, flavorful cooking.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be asking for this one again and again. It’s the kind of dish that’s loved by everyone, no matter their age.

Quick and Easy: If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick to throw together but still has that home-cooked feel, this spaghetti recipe is a winner. Perfect for those days when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to spare.

Customizable: Want to add some extra flair? You can easily customize this dish with your favorite toppings, like grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, or even meatballs or sausage for a heartier meal.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti:

• Spaghetti: The star of the show. You’ll want a high-quality pasta that cooks up perfectly al dente.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and onions—this adds a subtle richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds that aromatic, savory flavor that’s key to the sauce.
• Onion: A touch of onion for a sweet, aromatic base that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Canned tomatoes: A good quality can of crushed tomatoes is what makes this sauce so flavorful.
• Tomato paste: For a little extra richness and depth in the sauce.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme brings that classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, because a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper can work wonders.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how you can make this delicious Old-Fashioned Spaghetti in just a few easy steps:

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen starts to smell AMAZING.

3. Add the Tomatoes

Once the garlic and onion are softened, add the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine. Then, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together. The sauce will thicken and become rich and flavorful.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that gorgeous tomato sauce.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the spaghetti hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil if you’re feeling fancy. A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad makes this meal even more perfect.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 5mg
  Sodium: 420mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 58g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 7g
  Protein: 9g
  Vitamin A: 4%
  Vitamin C: 15%
  Calcium: 2%
  Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Spaghetti

This Old-Fashioned Spaghetti is incredibly versatile and can be paired with many sides to complete your meal:

Garlic Bread: You can’t have spaghetti without garlic bread! The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for dipping into the leftover sauce.

Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta and add some crunch to the meal.

Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are a great way to add some extra nutrients to your meal.

Meatballs or Sausage: If you’re in the mood for more protein, adding homemade meatballs or grilled Italian sausage makes this dish even heartier and more filling.

Additional Tips

Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge for a day or two. The flavors will only deepen and develop.

Customize Your Sauce: Want to kick it up a notch? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or stir in a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor.

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can add a burst of flavor at the end. Just sprinkle some on top before serving to elevate the dish.

Double the Batch: This recipe is great for making extra sauce to freeze for later. Store the sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months—just heat it up when you need a quick meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for this recipe?

A1: Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for the traditional spaghetti. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and you’ll still have a delicious dish.

Q2: Can I add meat to the sauce?

A2: Yes! Ground beef, pork, or turkey are great additions. Just brown the meat before adding the garlic and onion, and then proceed with the recipe as usual.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

A3: Yes! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop before serving. Cook the pasta just before you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Q4: Can I freeze the sauce?

A4: Yes! This sauce freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little splash of water or broth if needed.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

A6: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the sauce! Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q7: Can I make this dish spicier?

A7: Of course! If you love spice, just add some red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even a finely chopped jalapeño to the sauce for an extra kick.

Q8: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

A8: Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, just be sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the sauce. You may need to simmer the sauce longer to reach the right consistency.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?

A9: Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large enough skillet or pan to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.

Q10: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A10: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just leave out any meat or sausage, and you have a perfect, meatless meal!

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Spaghetti is everything you want in a pasta dish—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or just craving some comfort food, this classic recipe will always deliver. So grab a fork, twirl up some spaghetti, and enjoy a delicious plate of pure happiness!*

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