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Easy Classic Spaghetti Recipe for Beginners Made Perfect Step by Step

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A straightforward and foolproof classic spaghetti recipe perfect for beginners, featuring a garlicky tomato sauce and al dente noodles. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting dish is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces / 800 grams) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil if available)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn (for garnish)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil using about 4 quarts (3.8 liters) of water and 1 tablespoon of salt.
  2. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Break in half if needed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Taste at 8 minutes to check.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  6. Add canned crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
  7. Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Stir well.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
  9. Reserve about ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
  10. Return drained spaghetti to the pot or a large bowl. Add the tomato sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  11. Stir in or sprinkle fresh basil over the top.
  12. Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side.

Notes

Do not rinse pasta after draining to help sauce stick better. Salt pasta water well for seasoning. Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Simmer sauce slowly for best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, classic spaghetti, easy spaghetti recipe, beginner pasta recipe, Italian pasta, tomato sauce, garlic pasta, quick dinner

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