Description
This classic Old-Fashioned Spaghetti recipe features a rich, homemade tomato sauce simmered to perfection with aromatic herbs and garlic, served over perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti. It’s an easy, comforting Italian dish ideal for family dinners and gatherings, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and optional fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water (or as needed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Salt, for boiling water
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Add the oregano, basil, thyme, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Cook the spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Divide the spaghetti among serving plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with a side of garlic bread and enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred consistency.
- For a richer flavor, allow the sauce to simmer longer, up to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adding sugar is optional but helps balance tomato acidity if needed.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhance the freshness and presentation.
- Use good quality Parmesan for the best taste finish.
