Transform your pantry staples into a mouthwatering meal with this quick and budget-friendly recipe for "Cheapo Fake Spaghetti." Perfect for frugal foodies or anyone craving comfort food on a dime, this dish cleverly swaps traditional pasta for instant ramen noodles, creating a satisfying spaghetti alternative in just 15 minutes. The rich homemade sauce, made with canned tomato sauce, garlic sautéed in olive oil, and aromatic Italian seasoning, brings robust flavor to this simple yet delicious meal. Top it with optional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a touch of gourmet flair. Affordable, easy to make, and packed with taste, this "fake spaghetti" is a must-try for busy weeknights or tight budgets!
Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, but discard the seasoning packets. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Pour the canned tomato sauce into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet with the tomato sauce, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce.
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir to melt into the sauce.
Transfer the 'Cheapo Fake Spaghetti' to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley, if using.
Serve immediately and enjoy your quick, budget-friendly meal!
Calories |
1018 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 45.4 g | 58% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.1 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 2053 mg | 89% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 128.8 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.5 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.8 g | ||
| Protein | 22.2 g | 44% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 206 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 9.4 mg | 52% | |
| Potassium | 1058 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.