There’s something utterly delightful about the aroma of garlicky marinara sauce bubbling away on the stove, mingling with perfectly al dente spaghetti. This dish, Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce, evokes a comforting nostalgia that can transport you to an Italian trattoria, even if you’re just in your cozy kitchen. With each twirl of spaghetti around your fork, you can taste the love and simplicity that this meal offers.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The moment that sauce hits the heat, your senses come alive. A splash of olive oil, a hint of basil, and those vibrant tomatoes create a symphony of flavors that beckons everyone to gather around the dinner table. You know it’s going to be a good night when Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce is involved!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is easy to prepare even on busy weeknights
- It bursts with rich flavors that will impress even the pickiest eaters
- The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach
- Perfect for family dinners but versatile enough for any occasion!
I remember one family gathering where I made this dish—people were literally fighting over the last bit! It was both hilarious and heartwarming to see everyone so thrilled about pasta.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality durum wheat spaghetti for that perfect bite; cooking time usually ranges from 8-12 minutes.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its fruity flavor; it makes all the difference in the sauce.
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Fresh Garlic: Mince fresh garlic cloves; they add depth and richness to your marinara sauce.
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Canned Tomatoes: Choose whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes; both work beautifully in marinara.
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Basil: Fresh basil leaves are essential; they elevate the flavor profile with their aromatic essence.
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Sugar: A pinch of sugar balances acidity; just a teaspoon can work wonders.
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Salt and Pepper: Season thoughtfully during cooking for maximum flavor impact.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop garlic finely and measure out your canned tomatoes; this preps you for smooth sailing ahead.
Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour about two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté until fragrant. You want it golden brown but not burnt—about 30 seconds should do!
Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in your canned tomatoes along with their juices. Crush them gently with a spoon as you stir them into the garlic mix; let this simmer for about 20 minutes.
Season Your Sauce: After simmering, season your sauce with salt, pepper, and sugar. Taste it! Adjust seasoning as needed until it sings with flavor.
Cook Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers away happily, boil salted water in another pot. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—don’t forget to save some pasta water!
Toss Together!: Drain spaghetti, reserving a cup of pasta water. Combine spaghetti in the skillet with marinara sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
And voilà! You’ve created magic right in your kitchen.
Now you’re ready to serve up bowls of joy filled with Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce—a dish made not just to nourish but also to bring smiles around your table! Enjoy every bite as you share stories and laughter while savoring this classic meal together.
You Must Know
- This classic spaghetti with marinara sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a timeless comfort food that can be prepared quickly
- The aroma of simmering tomatoes and garlic fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- A bowl of spaghetti brings everyone together, making any day feel special
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes. Simmer while cooking spaghetti to ensure everything finishes simultaneously, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to toss in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. You can also substitute fresh basil for dried herbs to enhance the freshness of your sauce.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to keep the pasta moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Cook pasta al dente so it holds its texture when mixed with sauce
- Always taste your marinara sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning elevates the dish
- Allowing the sauce to simmer longer deepens its flavor profile
Making this spaghetti with marinara sauce always reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food, where everyone fought over the last bite!
FAQ
Can I use jarred marinara sauce instead?
Yes, jarred sauces can save time, but homemade offers richer flavor.
How do I make my sauce thicker?
Simmer longer or add tomato paste for a thicker consistency.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well and maintains a great taste.
Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce is a classic comfort dish that transforms your kitchen into an Italian trattoria. With fragrant garlic, vibrant tomatoes, and fresh basil, this simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti (durum wheat)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients; mince garlic and measure tomatoes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add canned tomatoes with juices; crush gently and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season sauce with sugar, salt, and pepper; adjust as needed.
- Boil salted water in a separate pot; cook spaghetti until al dente (8-12 minutes).
- Drain spaghetti, reserving some pasta water; combine with marinara sauce.
- Toss together and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (210g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
