Child's Spaghetti Recipe

Boil pasta

Bring 8 cups of water and 1 tablespoon kosher salt to a rolling boil in a large pot over high heat. Add 8 oz dried spaghetti, stir once to separate, and cook uncovered according to package directions for al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Add 1/4 cup finely chopped onion and cook, stirring, until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add 1 teaspoon minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.

Add 8 oz lean ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break it into small pieces with a spoon or spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes.

If excess fat accumulates, tilt the pan and spoon off extra fat or blot with a paper towel, leaving a little for flavor.

Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, and 1/4 cup water to loosen. Mix until combined.

Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld flavors, stirring occasionally.

Taste and adjust seasoning for a child-friendly balance — reduce salt or pepper if desired. If the sauce seems too thick, add up to the reserved 1/4 cup pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches a spoonable consistency.

Return the drained spaghetti to the pot or to the skillet with the sauce on the lowest heat. Add 1 teaspoon butter and toss pasta with the sauce until evenly coated. If using the pot, combine pasta and sauce in the skillet and toss together.

Stir in 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese. If desired, add up to 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for color.

Divide into 2 child-sized servings (or 3 small portions). Serve warm. For picky eaters you can serve sauce on top rather than mixed in.