When it comes to comforting Italian classics, few dishes can match the sheer joy of a perfectly sauced plate of spaghetti. The Best Spaghetti Recipe brings together simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack an incredible flavor punch every single time. With a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and just the right kick from red pepper flakes, this recipe turns ordinary spaghetti into a memorable meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, but each one plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and delicious spaghetti sauce. From the al dente pasta to the fresh basil garnish, every element contributes to the texture, aroma, and vibrant color that will make your dish sing.
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta: The classic noodle that carries the sauce perfectly with a tender bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently sauté the garlic to golden perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers that irresistible aroma and depth of flavor essential for authentic Italian cooking.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: Forms the luscious, tangy base of the sauce, simmered to deepen its sweet and savory notes.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings a warm, earthy undertone that complements the tomato’s acidity beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds a herbal sweetness that’s truly characteristic of classic spaghetti sauce.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a subtle spicy kick to wake up the palate, adjustable to your taste.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Freshness and vibrant color finish the dish with a bright herbal note.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that perfectly crowns every forkful.
- Optional: extra olive oil for drizzling: A silky finishing touch that elevates the sauce’s texture and flavor.
How to Make The Best Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Cook Your Spaghetti
The very first step is to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti exactly according to the package instructions. This ensures that your noodles achieve that ideal al dente texture — tender yet with a satisfying bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta but make sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is pure magic for adjusting the sauce consistency later on, helping everything cling to the noodles beautifully.
Step 2: Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook it gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. This step is where the sauce builds its aromatic foundation. Be careful not to burn the garlic since that can create bitterness and spoil the flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce to Perfection
Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes along with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering thickens the sauce and lets all those herbs and spices meld into a harmonious, flavorful base for your spaghetti.
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Sauce
Once your sauce has thickened slightly, add the drained spaghetti right into the skillet. Toss the noodles thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated with the rich tomato sauce. If the sauce feels too thick or the pasta isn’t quite evenly coated, add small splashes of the reserved pasta water. This trick helps to smooth out the sauce, making it silky and perfectly clingy.
Step 5: Fresh Basil Finish
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. This final touch introduces a fresh, herbal brightness that makes the flavors pop and the dish smell like an Italian trattoria in your own kitchen.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out the spaghetti onto plates or into bowls, generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and drizzle a little extra olive oil on top if you like. This rich, simple, and utterly delicious plate of spaghetti is ready to be enjoyed with everyone you love.
How to Serve The Best Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your spaghetti is a classic that never goes out of style. The salty, nutty flavor of Parmesan perfectly complements the tomato sauce’s acidity. Adding a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top enhances the dish’s silkiness and gives it a beautiful sheen. For an extra fresh note, toss on a few whole basil leaves or some thinly sliced fresh garlic if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
The Best Spaghetti Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing salads like a Caesar or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette — the acidity helps balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is another fantastic choice, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, add color and a different texture to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special presentation, twirl portions of spaghetti neatly into nests on your plates using a fork and spoon. Layer the spaghetti with a bit more cheese and fresh basil on top for an inviting look. Serve in rustic bowls to emphasize the homestyle comfort factor, or get playful by topping with a fried egg or some sautéed mushrooms for a twist that will impress your dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of The Best Spaghetti Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce will deepen in flavor overnight, so your next meal might be even better. Leftover spaghetti typically stays fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
To freeze your spaghetti, pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. For best results, freeze the pasta and the sauce separately if possible to preserve texture. When stored properly, it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Make sure to label your container with the date so you know exactly when to enjoy it by.
Reheating
Reheat leftover spaghetti gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or Parmesan to revive those fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried spaghetti?
Absolutely! Fresh pasta cooks much more quickly, so keep a close eye and reduce cooking time accordingly. Fresh pasta offers a tender, delicate texture that many love, and it absorbs sauce beautifully.
What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
You can substitute with canned diced tomatoes blended slightly to create a smoother texture or use passata for a smoother, fresher sauce. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly to thicken the sauce.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The half teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warming heat that enhances the flavor without overpowering it. If you prefer mild flavors, feel free to omit them entirely. For those who love spice, you can always add a bit more.
Can I add meat or vegetables to this spaghetti recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is a fantastic base for customization. Browned ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers can be added to make the dish heartier and add extra layers of flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
It can be! Just swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great choice for those needing to avoid gluten.
Final Thoughts
Sharing The Best Spaghetti Recipe is like passing down a little slice of happiness. It’s simple, reliable, and bursting with classic Italian flavors that comfort and delight. Once you try it, it becomes a go-to that you’ll come back to time and time again. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of this recipe in your own kitchen — it’s truly a plate full of love.
Print
The Best Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A classic and simple spaghetti recipe featuring a flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting Italian dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual family meal.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
To Serve
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly, adding some reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening to better adhere to the pasta.
- Finish with Fresh Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the freshly chopped basil leaves, allowing their bright flavor to infuse the dish.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle extra olive oil over the top if desired for added richness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti!
Notes
- Reserve pasta water when draining as it helps loosen the sauce and allows it to cling better to the pasta.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit if you want a milder sauce.
- Fresh basil added at the end preserves its vibrant flavor and color.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
