Homemade spaghetti is a delicious and classic dish that you can easily prepare at home. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own flavorful homemade spaghetti:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340g) dried spaghetti noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey (you can also use a combination of beef and pork)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (optional, for added texture)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Boil the Spaghetti: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water, then add the spaghetti noodles. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the cooked spaghetti and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon and cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
- Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes if using. Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Cook the Spaghetti and Sauce Together: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, using tongs or a pasta fork to combine them thoroughly. Allow the spaghetti to cook in the sauce for a minute or two, so it absorbs some of the flavors.
- Serve: Dish the homemade spaghetti onto plates or into bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Enjoy your homemade spaghetti with your favorite garlic bread or a fresh green salad on the side!