Looking for the ultimate Homemade Spaghetti Recipe? This classic dish combines a rich, flavorful meat sauce with perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a meal that’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe will become your go-to for satisfying cravings and impressing guests.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 cup water or beef broth
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
1 lb spaghetti
Salt for pasta water
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Homemade Spaghetti Recipe Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water or beef broth. Mix well.
Season the sauce with sugar, basil, oregano, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
3. Combine:
Homemade Spaghetti Recipe Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and garnish with chopped parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Homemade Spaghetti
Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, replace dried basil and oregano with fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce while it simmers for extra depth.
Save Time: Prepare the sauce a day ahead. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier.
Go Gluten-Free: Swap regular spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta if needed.
Make It Your Own: Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a hearty twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugars: 6g
Conclusion
Homemade spaghetti is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, hearty sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a recipe that never fails to satisfy. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete, delicious meal.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Spaghetti
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality crushed tomatoes and pasta for the best flavor and texture.
- Season Gradually: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy water can help thicken the sauce and make it stick better to the spaghetti.
- Let the Sauce Rest: Allow the sauce to sit off the heat for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Customize Your Dish: Add vegetables, swap the ground beef for turkey, or make it vegetarian by using lentils or mushrooms.