Easy Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce: A Classic Comfort Food

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Easy Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce: A Classic Comfort Food

When it comes to timeless meals that never fail to please, Easy Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce tops the list. This dish celebrates the beauty of simplicity and proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent tackling hectic evenings, or simply someone who wants a no-fail recipe, spaghetti with tomato sauce is the ultimate go-to comfort food.

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. It’s hearty enough for a satisfying meal, quick enough for a weeknight dinner, and elegant enough to share with company. With its rich tomato flavors, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s no wonder this has become a staple in households around the world.

Why Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce is a Favorite

The secret behind the popularity of spaghetti with tomato sauce lies in its straightforward appeal:

  1. Quick and Simple: With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, this dish can be on the table in under 30 minutes.
  2. Affordable Ingredients: It uses basics you’re likely to already have in your pantry—pasta, canned tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and spices.
  3. Universally Loved: Its comforting flavors appeal to eaters of all ages, making it a frequent request for family meals.
  4. Customizable: You can spice it up, dress it down, or make it more substantial with additional ingredients—whatever suits your mood.

Keeping dinner uncomplicated doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. With this recipe, you’ll find that even the simplest dishes can feel like a special treat.

Easy Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh, finely diced tomatoes)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—this usually takes 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water to use later.

  2. Sauté the Aromatics
    Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to bloom. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

  3. Cook the Tomato Sauce
    Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan with the onions and garlic. Add dried oregano, sugar (if using), red pepper flakes (if desired), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and allow it to cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can meld.

  4. Finish the Sauce
    Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir in the fresh basil (or dried basil) and simmer for another 1–2 minutes. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
    Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the sauce and toss gently, ensuring every strand of pasta is coated. Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for 1–2 minutes, absorbing its flavors.

  6. Serve and Enjoy
    Plate the spaghetti, sprinkle generously with grated parmesan cheese, and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade, comforting bowl of spaghetti with tomato sauce!

Variations to Explore

One of the joys of spaghetti with tomato sauce is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

  1. Add Protein: Toss in cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
  2. Make it Vegetarian: Include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
  3. Go Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sprinkle in chili flakes for bold heat.
  4. Use Whole-Grain or Gluten-Free Pasta: For a healthier spin, try swapping regular spaghetti with whole-grain or gluten-free options.
  5. Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a richer sauce.
  6. Seafood Twist: Enhance the dish with shrimp, anchovies, or clams for a Mediterranean angle.

Experimenting with these variations ensures you’ll never get bored of this classic favorite.

Cooking Tips for Success

  1. Salt Your Pasta Water: This simple step enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, giving your entire dish better taste.
  2. Don’t Overcook Pasta: Spaghetti should offer a firm bite (“al dente”). Overcooking can result in mushy textures.
  3. Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh, ripe ones for the best sauce flavor.
  4. Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh basil brings brightness, dried herbs work just as well for a more rustic feel.
  5. Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a splash to the sauce helps build a cohesive, glossy texture.

By paying attention to these small but impactful tips, your spaghetti with tomato sauce will always be restaurant-worthy.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, approximately 1½ cups with sauce)

  • Calories: 350–400
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 20% DV

Thanks to its base of tomatoes, this meal provides a good dose of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Choosing whole-grain pasta and adding more vegetables or lean protein can make this dish even more nutrient-dense.

A Personal Connection

Growing up, spaghetti with tomato sauce was a meal that brought my family together. I remember coming home from school on chilly afternoons to the smell of garlic and onions sautéing on the stovetop. It was one of the first meals my mom taught me to cook—a dish that felt comforting in its simplicity yet satisfying and special.

Even now, as an adult with a hectic schedule, I find myself returning to this recipe when life feels overwhelming. Whether I’m cooking it for my own family or sharing it with friends, spaghetti with tomato sauce always feels like a little reminder of home. There’s something magical about how a plate of pasta can carry so much love and tradition on its strands.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to pull together but never fails to impress, this is it. Grab that box of spaghetti and your favorite tomatoes—tonight might just be the perfect night for some classic comfort.

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