Spaghetti Recipe
Make Spaghetti Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Sauce
To Finish
Method
Pasta
- 1
Bring 4 quarts (about 3.8 L) of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 2 tablespoons kosher salt to the boiling water.
- 2
Add 12 oz dried spaghetti to the boiling water, stir immediately to prevent sticking, and cook uncovered at a steady boil until al dente (follow package time, typically 8–10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- 3
Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander. Do not rinse.
Sauce
- 4
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
- 5
Add 1 cup finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent but not browned.
- 6
Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté 30–45 seconds, until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
- 7
Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to develop sweetness and remove raw edge.
- 8
Add 28 oz crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- 9
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and simmer, uncovered, for 10–15 minutes to thicken and meld flavors. Stir occasionally and taste; adjust salt or sugar if tomatoes taste too acidic.
- 10
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender for a few seconds or mash with a spoon to desired texture. Stir in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional) for a silkier finish.
- 11
Just before you finish the sauce, stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, if using.
To Finish
- 12
Add drained spaghetti directly to the sauce in the skillet. Toss to combine, using up to 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen and help the sauce adhere to the noodles. Toss until pasta is evenly coated and sauce clings to the strands (1–2 minutes).
- 13
Turn off heat and stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- 14
Serve immediately, topped with extra grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves if desired.