Description
A classic and comforting spaghetti recipe featuring al dente pasta tossed in a rich, homemade tomato sauce infused with garlic, oregano, basil, and a touch of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 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
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- 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 the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer the tomato sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly, adding some reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening to better adhere to the noodles.
- Finish with fresh basil: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves to add brightness and freshness to the dish.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired for added richness. Enjoy your flavorful spaghetti meal!
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and improve adherence to the noodles.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste depending on preferred spice level; omit for a milder dish.
- Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- This recipe is easily doubled or halved to fit your serving needs.
