Classic Homemade Spaghetti
A Cozy Italian-Inspired Delight
Dive into the comforting embrace of classic homemade spaghetti, where fresh pasta meets a rich, savory tomato sauce, all made from scratch. This dish is the epitome of Italian-inspired comfort food, perfect for a cozy dinner with family or to impress guests with your culinary skills.
Why I Love This Recipe
I adore this homemade spaghetti recipe because it beautifully marries the art of crafting fresh pasta with the deep flavors of a slow-simmered tomato sauce. The pasta boasts a tender yet firm texture that you just can’t find in store-bought versions, while the sauce is infused with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a touch of spice. It’s my go-to for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for perfect pasta.
- 2 large eggs: Adds richness and structure.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For smoothness and elasticity.
- 2 tablespoons water (as needed): Helps form the dough.
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds herby notes.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a bit of heat.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): To cut acidity.
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped: For fresh, vibrant flavor.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): A savory finish.
Directions
Make the Pasta
- On a clean surface, make a well in the flour and add the eggs, salt, and olive oil. Gradually mix with a fork, incorporating the flour little by little. Add water as needed to form a dough.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough and cut into spaghetti strands using a pasta cutter or knife. Let them dry slightly while preparing the sauce.
Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the Pasta & Serve
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the homemade spaghetti for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Drain and toss with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Meat Sauce: Add ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage to the sauce for a heartier dish.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make the pasta or substitute with store-bought gluten-free spaghetti.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a richer sauce.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Fresh pasta is best used immediately, but it can be frozen for later use.
- Reheating: Warm the pasta and sauce together in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
- How do I keep fresh pasta from sticking together?
- Dust the pasta strands lightly with flour and let them dry for a few minutes before cooking. This prevents them from clumping.
- Can I make the pasta dough ahead of time?
- Yes, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting.
- What type of flour is best for homemade pasta?
- All-purpose flour works well, but for a more traditional texture, mix in semolina flour for extra chewiness.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- Absolutely! Blanch, peel, and crush about 6-7 fresh tomatoes to replace the canned version.
- How do I thicken the sauce?
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer or add an extra spoonful of tomato paste. A small amount of grated Parmesan also helps thicken it.
Conclusion
This homemade spaghetti recipe is a classic comfort dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to the table. The fresh pasta and homemade sauce create a perfect balance of texture and taste, making it a meal worth savoring. Whether you keep it simple or add your favorite variations, it’s always a satisfying and delicious choice.
