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Easy Spaghetti

Helen T. Patterson
This Easy Spaghetti Recipe is a simple yet delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Made with tender spaghetti noodles, a rich tomato sauce, and flavorful seasonings, this classic meal comes together in just 30 minutes.
Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping, this comforting pasta dish is a go-to favorite!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • 1 colander (for draining pasta)
  • 1 Large Skillet (for cooking the sauce)
  • 1 Wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • 1 Chef’s knife (for chopping ingredients)

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 4 cups water for boiling
  • 1 tbsp salt

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
  • 1 tsp sugar to balance acidity

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes) until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring well.
  • Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar.
  • Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

  • Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  • Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • For a Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor.
  • For a Richer Sauce: Simmer the sauce longer (20–30 minutes) to deepen the flavors.
  • Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keyword Easy Spaghetti