Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with "Red and Ready Spaghetti," a simple yet flavor-packed recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This vibrant dish features al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich, homemade tomato sauce infused with the warmth of garlic, a hint of red chili flakes, and the earthy aromas of dried oregano and basil. Made with pantry staples like crushed tomatoes and a touch of tomato paste, this quick and easy spaghetti recipe is both budget-friendly and utterly satisfying. The optional sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan creates a luscious, cheesy finish, while chopped fresh basil adds a bright pop of color and freshness. Ready in just 35 minutes, this crowd-pleasing pasta dish is a go-to for anyone craving a hearty, red-sauce delight bursting with bold Italian flavors.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the spaghetti aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, red chili flakes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
Season the sauce with salt and black pepper, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce becomes too thick, use a few spoonfuls of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors from the sauce for about 2 minutes on low heat.
Divide the spaghetti among serving plates and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Calories |
68010 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 727.4 g | 933% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.4 g | 82% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 27019 mg | 1175% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14822.7 g | 5390% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4012.1 g | 14329% | |
| Total Sugars | 9352.6 g | ||
| Protein | 2710.7 g | 5421% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 53922 mg | 4148% | |
| Iron | 2009.5 mg | 11164% | |
| Potassium | 667548 mg | 14203% | |
*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.