Description
This Homemade Spaghetti recipe features fresh pasta made from scratch combined with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a family meal, it takes about an hour to prepare and offers a delicious alternative to store-bought pasta with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water (as needed)
For the 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 flour little by little. Add water as needed to form a workable dough.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it and let it rest for 30 minutes to develop gluten and relax the dough.
- Roll and Cut the Pasta: After resting, roll out the dough to your desired thickness and cut it into spaghetti strands using a pasta cutter or a knife. Let the strands 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, stirring constantly.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fresh homemade spaghetti for 2-3 minutes or until tender but still firm to the bite. Drain thoroughly.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the warm tomato sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving to add freshness and a creamy finish.
Notes
- Adding water gradually when mixing the dough helps achieve the right consistency without making it too sticky.
- Resting the dough is essential for easier rolling and better texture.
- Simmering the sauce low and slow enhances the flavor and thickens the sauce.
- If you don’t have a pasta cutter, a sharp knife and a steady hand work well.
- Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice depth of flavor but can be omitted or substituted as needed.
- Red pepper flakes are optional for a subtle heat; adjust based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian