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Easy Budget-Friendly Spaghetti & Sauce Recipe

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A quick, simple, and budget-friendly spaghetti and tomato sauce recipe that delivers rich flavor using pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340g) spaghetti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces / 800g) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of basil, oregano, thyme)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, adding about 1 tablespoon of salt.
  2. Add spaghetti and cook uncovered according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring often.
  5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Add sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste; simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
  10. Reserve 1/2 cup (120ml) pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
  11. Add drained spaghetti to the sauce skillet and toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
  12. Stir in torn fresh basil leaves just before serving.
  13. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Salt pasta water generously to season pasta from within. Toast garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Don’t skip tomato paste for depth of flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add fresh basil at the end to preserve flavor. Optional splash of red wine can enrich the sauce. Adaptable for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, budget-friendly, easy pasta recipe, tomato sauce, quick dinner, weeknight meal, simple ingredients, Italian seasoning, vegetarian, vegan option

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/easy-budget-friendly-spaghetti-and-sauce-recipe-5-tips-for-perfect-pasta-every-time/