flavorful spaghetti recipe
Lucas
Discover a quick and flavorful spaghetti recipe ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's comforting, customizable, and family-approved.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal
- 12 oz 340 g spaghetti noodles (regular or whole wheat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb 450 g lean ground beef or vegetarian protein
- 1 can 15 oz/425 g tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar or grated carrot to reduce acidity
- Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8–12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ground beef (or vegetarian protein) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add red pepper flakes and sugar or grated carrot. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning. Continue to cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Keyword easy spaghetti dinner, healthy spaghetti, lean ground beef