Description
This homemade spaghetti recipe combines freshly made pasta with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. Using simple ingredients, you can create an authentic Italian meal from scratch, including tender spaghetti strands and a savory sauce simmered with herbs and garlic. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this dish serves four and showcases the joy of homemade pasta paired with classic tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water (as needed)
Tomato Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Make the Pasta: On a clean surface, create a well in the flour and add the eggs, salt, and olive oil. Gradually mix with a fork, incorporating the flour little by little. Add water as needed to form a dough.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover it and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out later.
- Roll and Cut the Pasta: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into spaghetti strands using a pasta cutter or knife. Allow the cut pasta to dry slightly before cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar (if desired). Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors and thicken the sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the homemade spaghetti for 2-3 minutes or until tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the tomato sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot.
Notes
- Resting the pasta dough is essential for easier rolling and better texture.
- You can adjust the amount of water in the dough to achieve a smooth, not sticky consistency.
- If you don’t have a pasta cutter, use a sharp knife to slice the dough into thin strips.
- Red pepper flakes can be omitted if you prefer a milder sauce.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of olive oil or butter at the end of cooking.
- Fresh basil adds a bright flavor; add it last to preserve its aroma.
