If you’ve ever dreamed of twirling a perfect forkful of fresh pasta, then this Homemade Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. It’s a heartwarming dish that combines tender, silky homemade noodles with a robust, slow-simmered tomato sauce seasoned with fragrant herbs and a gentle hint of garlic. The joy of making pasta from scratch, paired with a rich sauce crafted from simple, wholesome ingredients, brings an unforgettable comfort and satisfaction to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or an intimate night in, this recipe promises that authentic Italian taste and that cozy, homemade charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Homemade Spaghetti Recipe plays a vital role, bringing together flavor, texture, and that irresistible color that makes you eager to dig in. From the flour that creates the supple pasta dough to the ripe tomatoes that give the sauce its vibrant red hue, these essentials keep things straightforward but never boring.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your pasta dough—be sure to measure carefully for perfect texture.
- 2 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the dough together for elasticity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of both dough and sauce without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle moisture and smoothness to the pasta dough.
- 2 tablespoons water (as needed): Used sparingly to achieve just the right dough consistency.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce): Creates a flavorful base when sautéing aromatics.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a gentle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, delivering freshness and body.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers classic Italian herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet earthiness to complement the oregano.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat for those who love a little kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Adds bright, fresh flavor just before serving.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): The perfect finishing touch to add savory richness.
How to Make Homemade Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Dough
Start by combining the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the olive oil and begin to incorporate the flour with a fork, slowly pulling in the dry ingredients from the sides. Add water one tablespoon at a time if the dough feels too dry. When the dough starts to come together, knead it on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—this is where the magic begins as the gluten develops, giving your pasta its perfect bite.
Step 2: Rest the Dough
Wrap your dough tightly in plastic wrap or cover it with a bowl and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting period is crucial because it relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out your dough thinly without it springing back.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Spaghetti
Divide the dough into smaller sections to make it manageable. Using a rolling pin or pasta machine, roll each section until it’s paper-thin—about 1/16 inch thick. Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking. Then, either use a pasta cutter or carefully slice thin strips with a sharp knife to form your spaghetti strands. Gently toss the cut pasta with flour and set aside on a floured surface while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and blend in the tomato paste. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes feel too acidic for your palate. This slow simmer unlocks a bold, layered flavor that will embrace your homemade spaghetti perfectly.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti and Combine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fresh spaghetti and cook for just 2 to 4 minutes—fresh pasta cooks faster than dried, so keep a close eye on it! Drain well, reserving a bit of pasta water. Toss the pasta directly into your sauce, adding a splash of reserved water if needed to help the sauce cling beautifully. Stir in the chopped fresh basil for a fragrant burst right before serving.
How to Serve Homemade Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each plate generously—this not only adds creamy, salty goodness but also melts slightly against the warm pasta for a luscious finish. For an extra touch, toss on some torn basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to highlight freshness and richness.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like garlic bread or a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complement this homemade spaghetti perfectly. Roasted vegetables or a simple Caprese salad can also bring vibrant colors and textures to balance the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your spaghetti in individual shallow bowls twirled neatly on a fork and topped with microgreens or edible flowers. Alternatively, transform leftovers into a baked casserole with layers of mozzarella and sauce that can become a warm, cheesy crowd-pleaser any day of the week.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover homemade spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because fresh pasta can absorb sauce and become tender quickly, keep the pasta and sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked spaghetti by spreading it on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze briefly, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents clumping. Freeze sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover homemade spaghetti gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving directly without stirring, as fresh pasta can overcook quickly and become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use a food processor to make the pasta dough?
Absolutely! A food processor can speed up the process by quickly mixing the flour and eggs. Just pulse until the dough starts to come together, then transfer to a floured surface to knead for the best texture.
What if I don’t have a pasta machine to roll the dough?
No worries! A rolling pin works perfectly fine. Just take your time to roll the dough evenly and keep sprinkling with flour to prevent sticking. Thin dough is key to tender spaghetti.
Can I make the sauce vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! This sauce is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative when serving.
How do I know when my fresh spaghetti is cooked?
Fresh pasta cooks in a matter of minutes—typically 2 to 4 minutes. Test a strand by biting into it; it should be tender but still have a slight bite, known as al dente.
What’s the best way to prevent fresh pasta from sticking?
Lightly dust your rolled and cut pasta with flour as you go. Also, make sure to use plenty of salted boiling water when cooking, and stir gently during the first minute to keep strands separated.
Final Thoughts
Making this Homemade Spaghetti Recipe isn’t just about food; it’s an experience filled with warmth, love, and the joy of creating something truly special from scratch. The flavor is pure, comforting, and rewarding—a reminder that the best meals often come from the simplest ingredients and a little bit of patience. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your favorite people.
Print
Homemade Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This homemade spaghetti recipe features freshly made pasta paired with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. Perfectly suited for a comforting family dinner, the sauce is simmered to meld the flavors together and served topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic Italian touch.
Ingredients
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 Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Form a well in the center and crack in the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs, adding water as needed to create a firm but pliable dough. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll and Cut the Pasta: After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface using a rolling pin or pasta machine to your desired thinness. Cut into spaghetti strands using a knife or pasta cutter. Dust with flour to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar to balance acidity. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh spaghetti and cook for 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
- Combine and Serve: Drain the pasta and toss it with the prepared sauce. Fold in the chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Fresh pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta; keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit for a milder sauce.
- Resting the dough allows gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
- Add water to the dough sparingly—you want a firm but not sticky dough.
- Sugar counteracts the acidity of tomatoes but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use a pasta machine for more uniform spaghetti strands if available.
