Homemade Spaghetti

Classic homemade spaghetti with a rich and savory tomato sauce, made entirely from scratch. This comforting meal brings together fresh pasta and a flavorful, slow-simmered sauce for the perfect Italian-inspired dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this homemade spaghetti recipe because it combines the satisfaction of making fresh pasta with a deeply flavorful tomato sauce. The pasta has a tender yet firm texture that store-bought versions can’t match, and the sauce is packed with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice. It’s a go-to recipe for a cozy dinner and is perfect for impressing family and friends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Directions

Make the Pasta

On a clean surface, make 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 for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Roll out the dough and cut into spaghetti strands using a pasta cutter or knife. Let them dry slightly while preparing the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cook the Pasta & Serve

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the homemade spaghetti for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Drain and toss with the sauce.

Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 40 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 4

Variations

Meat Sauce: Add ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage to the sauce for a heartier dish.

Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

Vegetable Boost: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make the pasta or substitute with store-bought gluten-free spaghetti.

Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a richer sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Fresh pasta is best used immediately, but it can be frozen for later use.

Reheating: Warm the pasta and sauce together in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Related Recipes:

• Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
• Creamy Spaghetti
• Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

FAQs

How do I keep fresh pasta from sticking together?

I dust the pasta strands lightly with flour and let them dry for a few minutes before cooking. This prevents them from clumping.

Can I make the pasta dough ahead of time?

Yes, I wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting.

What type of flour is best for homemade pasta?

I use all-purpose flour, but for a more traditional texture, I sometimes mix in semolina flour for extra chewiness.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! I blanch, peel, and crush about 6-7 fresh tomatoes to replace the canned version.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, I let it simmer longer or add an extra spoonful of tomato paste. A small amount of grated Parmesan also helps thicken it.

Conclusion

This homemade spaghetti recipe is a classic comfort dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to the table. The fresh pasta and homemade sauce create a perfect balance of texture and taste, making it a meal worth savoring. Whether I keep it simple or add my favorite variations, it’s always a satisfying and delicious choice.

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