Pin It A timeless Italian favorite featuring tender spaghetti noodles coated in a vibrant garlicky tomato sauce finished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
I have always found this classic spaghetti with marinara sauce to be the perfect comfort meal for family dinners. The fresh basil and Parmesan add a wonderful finishing touch.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) dried spaghetti
- Marinara Sauce: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped 4 cloves garlic minced 800 g (28 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp dried oregano 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 1 bay leaf Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves torn
- Garnish: 40 g (1/3 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese Additional fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water then drain and set aside tossing lightly with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Step 3:
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Crush the canned tomatoes by hand or with a spoon then add them (with juices) to the saucepan along with sugar oregano crushed red pepper flakes (if using) bay leaf salt and pepper.
- Step 5:
- Simmer the sauce uncovered over low heat for 20 minutes stirring occasionally until slightly thickened. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the torn basil leaves and simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Step 7:
- Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce tossing well to coat. If needed add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately garnished with grated Parmesan and additional fresh basil.
Pin It Serving this dish always brings smiles at our family table, reminding us of simple Italian home cooking.
Notes
For a richer sauce add a splash of red wine with the tomatoes. Substitute gluten-free spaghetti if desired. For a vegan version omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Pair with a crisp Chianti or Sangiovese for a classic match.
Required Tools
Large pot Large saucepan Wooden spoon Colander Chefs knife Grater
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) Milk (Parmesan cheese) Check cheese for rennet if strict vegetarian Always verify labels for hidden allergens.
Pin It This classic spaghetti marinara is quick and satisfying a go-to for weeknights or casual gatherings.