The Best Spaghetti

Let’s talk about the kind of pasta dish that makes everyone gather around the table, fork in hand, and eagerly dig in—The Best Spaghetti. This isn’t just any spaghetti. Oh no, it’s the kind that makes you smile with every bite, the one that’s saucy, savory, and just a little bit decadent. Imagine tender spaghetti noodles, coated in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs to top it all off. Trust me, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or the star of your next dinner party. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love The Best Spaghetti

• Simple Yet Irresistible: This recipe is all about classic flavors that never go out of style. It’s comfort food at its finest—easy to make and absolutely delicious.
• Perfectly Balanced Sauce: The sauce is the true hero of this dish. With a hint of garlic, the tanginess of tomatoes, and just the right amount of seasoning, it’s perfect for covering your pasta in savory goodness.
• Quick & Easy: You won’t have to spend all day in the kitchen to get a plate of spaghetti this good. It’s quick, straightforward, and perfect for a busy night when you want something that’s both satisfying and delicious.
• Customizable: Whether you love extra spice or a bit of creaminess, you can adjust the flavor to make it your own. Add some red pepper flakes, throw in some olives, or top it off with a few fresh basil leaves.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• Olive Oil
• Garlic
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes
• Tomato Paste
• Salt
• Sugar
• Dried Oregano
• Fresh Basil (optional)
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper

For the Spaghetti

• Spaghetti Noodles
• Salt (for the pasta water)
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving)

Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make the best spaghetti:

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the noodles aside.

2. Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, and season with salt, sugar, oregano, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Allow the pasta to absorb the sauce for about 2-3 minutes. If you like it extra saucy, feel free to add more pasta water or extra sauce at this point.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Divide the spaghetti between plates and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil if you like. Serve immediately, and enjoy the classic flavors of a perfectly made spaghetti dish!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve The Best Spaghetti

While this spaghetti can totally stand on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a few sides:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for that extra indulgence.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect balance to the rich flavors of the spaghetti.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, complement the dish with their natural sweetness and crunch.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or add a pinch to the pasta water.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a creamier version of this spaghetti. It adds richness and makes the sauce even more indulgent.
• Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water! It helps create the perfect sauce texture and helps the sauce adhere to the pasta.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of flavor right before serving. It’s a simple touch that makes a big difference.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A1: Yes! If you’re using fresh tomatoes, be sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the sauce. You might need to simmer the sauce a bit longer to break them down.

Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to swap the spaghetti for any pasta you love—penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can! The sauce stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat the sauce and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water to loosen the sauce.

Q5: Can I freeze this spaghetti?
A5: Yes, the sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. You can freeze it in a separate container, and when you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and cook fresh pasta.

Q6: Can I add meat to the sauce?
A6: Of course! Ground beef, sausage, or even meatballs are a great addition. Just cook them separately and add them to the sauce when you’re simmering it.

Q7: Is this recipe vegan?
A7: This recipe is not vegan because it includes Parmesan cheese. To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Q8: Can I make this gluten-free?
A8: Yes, just use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap!

Q9: Can I use a jarred sauce instead of making it from scratch?
A9: You can, but I highly recommend making the sauce from scratch—it’s easy and the flavors are unbeatable. If you do use jarred sauce, try to find one with minimal added sugars and preservatives for the best flavor.

Q10: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
A10: Be sure to cook the pasta in a large pot with plenty of salted water and stir occasionally while it’s cooking. Adding a little olive oil to the pot can also help prevent sticking.

Conclusion

When it comes to comfort food, The Best Spaghetti is where it’s at. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this recipe is sure to win everyone over. Grab your pasta, get your sauce simmering, and prepare to enjoy a bowl of the best spaghetti you’ve ever tasted!

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