The aroma of freshly cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, comforting embrace. Each twirl of pasta dances with vibrant red sauce that bursts with flavor, making your taste buds sing in delight. Imagine sitting down to a heaping plate of this classic dish, where every bite transports you to a rustic Italian kitchen filled with laughter and love. For more inspiration, check out this Explore more main dishes recipe.
As a kid, I remember my family gathering around the dinner table, where my dad would proudly serve his famous spaghetti with marinara sauce. The raucous laughter and stories shared over dinner created memories that still bring smiles to my face. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive Sunday feast, this dish brings everyone together, creating an atmosphere of joy and deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This spaghetti with marinara sauce is not only easy to whip up but also full of robust flavors that please any palate
- The bright colors and rich aromas make it a showstopper on any dinner table
- Perfectly versatile, it pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends without spending all day in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Spaghetti: Choose high-quality dried spaghetti for optimal texture; it holds the sauce beautifully.
Canned Tomatoes: Use whole peeled tomatoes for freshness and flavor; crush them by hand for the best result.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm garlic cloves; they pack a flavorful punch that elevates the sauce.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to your marinara.
Dried Oregano: This herb imparts an authentic Italian flavor; feel free to use fresh if you have it!
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute will do. Adding garlic at just the right time ensures maximum flavor without bitterness.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes
Pour in your canned tomatoes and crush them gently using a wooden spoon or your hands (yes, that’s allowed!). Stir in salt, pepper, and oregano. Let this simmer on low heat while you cook the spaghetti.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a big pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so no noodle gets left behind!
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your spaghetti is cooked just right, drain it (but don’t rinse!) and toss it into the skillet with your marinara sauce. Give everything a good mix so that each strand is coated in that glorious red goodness.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Transfer generous portions of your spaghetti with marinara sauce onto plates. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy! Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Sit back, take a moment to appreciate your culinary masterpiece, and dig in! Pair it with some garlic bread or a refreshing salad for an unforgettable meal.
With these simple steps, you’re well on your way to savoring homemade spaghetti with marinara sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful spaghetti with marinara sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your pantry
- The bright colors and rich aromas make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach
- Perfect for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve spaghetti with marinara sauce perfection, start by boiling your pasta while sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil. Once that aromatic bliss fills your kitchen, add crushed tomatoes and simmer. It’s all about multitasking like a pro.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch things up! Add some red pepper flakes for heat, toss in sautéed veggies, or even swirl in some fresh basil at the end. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability to your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it looks dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect spaghetti with marinara sauce, use high-quality tomatoes for richer flavor
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it makes a world of difference in taste
- Don’t rush the simmering process; letting it cook longer enhances the sauce’s depth
I remember the first time I made spaghetti with marinara sauce for my family. They were so impressed that they declared me “the pasta whisperer” and demanded I make it every Sunday thereafter!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce?
To prepare Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce, you’ll need simple ingredients that may already be in your pantry. Start with spaghetti noodles, diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), garlic, onion, olive oil, and fresh basil. For seasoning, include salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can add grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor. This recipe is both satisfying and easy to customize according to your taste preferences.
How long does it take to cook Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce?
Cooking Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce typically requires about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by boiling water and cooking the spaghetti for around 8-12 minutes until al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare the marinara sauce by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil before adding tomatoes and spices. Allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes for rich flavors. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this check out cooking tips recipe.
Can I make Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce ahead of time. The marinara sauce actually benefits from sitting for a few hours or even overnight because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store the sauce separately from the cooked spaghetti in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce while cooking fresh pasta for best results.
Is Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce is a delicious vegetarian dish that features wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It is also naturally vegan if you omit any cheese toppings. This dish is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it a fantastic option for anyone following a plant-based diet or looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion for Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce:
In conclusion, Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce is an easy-to-make dish that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe can be customized to suit any palate. With just 30 minutes of cooking time and minimal effort, you’ll have a hearty meal ready on your table. Enjoy this comforting classic knowing you’ve made a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce. This classic Italian dish features al dente spaghetti tossed in a vibrant marinara sauce made from ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is simple yet satisfying, guaranteed to impress your loved ones with its rich taste and delightful aroma.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinara Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in canned tomatoes and crush them gently. Stir in salt, pepper, and oregano. Let simmer while cooking pasta.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain spaghetti (do not rinse) and add it to the marinara sauce, tossing to coat.
- Serve: Plate generous portions of spaghetti, topping with grated Parmesan cheese and garnishing with fresh basil.
- Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
