If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the past, this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Italian-American dish brings together a rich, homemade tomato sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti for a timeless meal that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or want to impress friends with a nostalgic favorite, this recipe delivers all the cozy, homemade flavor that makes spaghetti one of the most beloved dishes in the world.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavors, from the fresh aroma of garlic to the sweetness of slow-simmered tomatoes.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon of this brings a subtle fruitiness and is the perfect base for sautéing onions and garlic.
- Small onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and depth once cooked down.
- Garlic cloves: Minced; they add an irresistible fragrant punch that defines the sauce’s character.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing bright, tangy tomato flavor and a luscious texture.
- 6 oz tomato paste: Adds richness and thickens the sauce for that hearty, comforting feel.
- Water: Just half a cup to balance thickness and help the sauce simmer beautifully.
- Dried oregano, basil, and thyme: These classic Italian herbs infuse the sauce with an earthy, aromatic profile.
- Sugar (optional): Just a pinch to mellow out any tomato acidity for a smoother taste.
- Salt and black pepper: To season perfectly and highlight all those amazing flavors.
- Spaghetti: One pound is enough to satisfy four hungry diners with noodles cooked to satisfying al dente perfection.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For that finishing touch, melting beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh parsley or basil: Optional garnishes that brighten the dish with color and fresh aroma.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by warming the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step creates a flavorful base that’s essential for the sauce. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning it — this little step makes all the difference in flavor depth.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water, stirring everything together. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of sugar if you want to soften the acidity just a bit. Don’t forget the salt and freshly ground black pepper — seasoning is key to building layers of flavor. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors melt together beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
While your sauce is bubbling away, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions, aiming for al dente texture—firm to the bite but cooked through, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, carefully drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed later. This little trick keeps your spaghetti perfectly sauced without drying out.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained spaghetti directly into the saucepan with your simmered tomato sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each strand is generously coated. If your sauce feels a bit too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it, ensuring the sauce clings perfectly without drowning the noodles.
Step 5: Serve
Divide the sauce-coated spaghetti among plates, then shower each serving with a generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add freshly chopped parsley or basil if you have it on hand — those fresh herbs add a lovely brightness and vibrant color that make the dish sing.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil instantly elevates this classic dish. It adds a pop of color and a lightly aromatic lift that balances the rich tomato sauce and cheese beautifully. Don’t be shy to add extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil for that glossy finish.
Side Dishes
Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crunchy garlic bread or a fresh green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. These sides complement the hearty pasta perfectly, offering contrasting textures and flavors that complete a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your spaghetti in individual bowls garnished with a whole basil leaf or a light dusting of smoked paprika for a bit of warmth. You could also turn it into a layered pasta bake with mozzarella and extra herbs for a cozy casserole-style dish on a chilly evening. Presentation doesn’t have to be complicated to be charming!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors of this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe develop even more overnight, making it perfect for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This spaghetti sauce freezes beautifully! Separate the portion you want to freeze into a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving space for expansion. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick homemade meal on busy nights.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the spaghetti gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a small splash of water or broth while reheating helps maintain the sauce’s silky texture, so your leftovers taste just as good as the first time you made them.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the sauce?
Fresh tomatoes can work, especially in summer, but canned crushed tomatoes offer consistency in flavor and texture year-round. If using fresh, cook them down thoroughly to achieve the right saucy consistency.
What’s the best way to prevent spaghetti from sticking together?
Use plenty of salted boiling water, stir the pasta occasionally while cooking, and avoid rinsing after draining. Tossing pasta immediately with sauce also helps keep it from clumping.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and follow the recipe as usual. The sauce is naturally gluten-free and just as delicious.
How long can I keep the leftover sauce in the fridge?
Store the sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 to 4 days. Always give it a sniff and a quick taste before using to make sure it’s fresh.
Is it possible to double this recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales up well for larger gatherings. Just make sure you have a big enough pot for simmering the sauce and enough room to cook the pasta comfortably.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious tradition that brings people together around the table. With its rich, homemade sauce and comforting textures, it’s a dish you’ll want to return to time and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and enjoy making some delicious memories with every forkful!
Print
Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Spaghetti recipe features a classic homemade tomato sauce simmered with fresh herbs and garlic, served over perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti. It’s a comforting and timeless Italian dish that is both simple to prepare and full of rich, savory flavors—perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water (or as needed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Salt, for boiling water
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the saucepan. Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, sugar (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Cook the spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the saucepan with the simmered sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve: Divide the spaghetti among serving plates and generously top each with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately, ideally accompanied by garlic bread for a classic Italian meal experience.
Notes
- Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow flavors to fully develop without burning.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency; its starch helps bind sauce and pasta smoothly.
- For a richer sauce, you can also add a splash of red wine with the tomatoes (optional).
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- This sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
