Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

If you’re craving a comforting, classic Italian dish that is both satisfying and simple, this easy Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce recipe is exactly what you need. This timeless meal combines al dente spaghetti with a fresh, vibrant tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor, making it an irresistible choice for any weeknight dinner. With fresh ingredients and fuss-free preparation, it’s a delicious way to elevate your pasta nights without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples for a quick, fuss-free meal.
• Rich Flavor: Fresh tomatoes and herbs create a vibrant sauce full of depth.
• Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile Dish: Easily customized with proteins, veggies, or spices to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food Classic: Delivers the warm, familiar flavors everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce recipe plays an important role, from adding freshness to enhancing texture and color. These simple, quality items ensure your dish tastes amazing every time.

• Spaghetti: Choose quality dried pasta for the perfect al dente bite.
• Fresh Tomatoes or Canned Tomatoes: Use ripe fresh tomatoes or good-quality canned tomatoes for a rich sauce base.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a slight kick to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Provides a silky texture and fruity aroma that complements the tomatoes.
• Onion: Brings natural sweetness and body to the sauce.
• Fresh Basil or Dried Herbs: Herbs boost freshness and add that classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): Offers a salty, savory finish when sprinkled on top.

Variations for Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

This Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these variations to keep each meal exciting and fresh.

• Protein Boost: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian Friendly: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herb Variations: Swap basil for oregano, thyme, or rosemary to create new flavor profiles.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

How to Make Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic, and if using fresh tomatoes, dice them into small pieces. Gather your herbs and have everything within reach before you begin cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

Add the fresh or canned tomatoes into the skillet. Simmer the mixture until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked spaghetti into the tomato sauce directly in the skillet. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if you want to loosen the sauce. Stir well so every strand is coated with the rich tomato goodness.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped basil over the pasta, and, if desired, grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting.

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

• Use Quality Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes or high-quality canned varieties make all the difference.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep it al dente to provide the perfect texture contrast with the sauce.
• Save Pasta Water: Adding a splash of starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling beautifully to the spaghetti.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer gently to develop deeper, richer flavors.
• Fresh Herbs Last: Add fresh basil or parsley at the end to preserve their bright, fresh taste.

How to Serve Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

Top your spaghetti with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness and presentation flair.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete your meal with a variety of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your spaghetti twirled neatly into nests on individual plates, or bake it with cheese on top for a delicious twist that the whole family will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze cooked spaghetti and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. This helps maintain texture when reheated later.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, or microwave with a splash of water to bring the sauce back to life without drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce?

Yes! High-quality canned tomatoes are a convenient alternative and often provide a consistent, rich flavor perfect for tomato sauce.

How do I make the sauce more flavorful?

Simmer the sauce longer to deepen the taste, use fresh herbs, and season carefully with salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.

What type of pasta works best?

Traditional spaghetti is ideal, but you can substitute with other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine to suit your preference.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep the dish vegan-friendly.

How do I store leftovers to keep the pasta from becoming mushy?

Store pasta and sauce separately when possible, and reheat gently with a bit of water or sauce to prevent drying or mushiness.

Final Thoughts

Making this classic Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce is like inviting a warm hug to your dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that brightens up any evening. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Italian cooking made easy!

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