Description
This Homemade Spaghettios recipe recreates the nostalgic canned pasta dish with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Featuring a savory tomato sauce with tender small pasta rings, this easy stovetop meal can be customized with vegan protein for a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
Additional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk or cream
- 1 cup small pasta rings (or ditalini)
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked lentils or vegan meat crumbles for added protein
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it softens. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Add and Simmer Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, sugar (if desired), onion powder, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to combine all flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the small pasta rings to the simmering sauce and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Make the Sauce Creamy: Stir in the unsweetened dairy-free milk or cream to enrich the sauce, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
- Add Protein (Optional): If desired, stir in the cooked lentils or vegan meat crumbles and heat through to incorporate additional protein into the dish.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the homemade Spaghettios warm.
Notes
- Nutritional yeast is optional but adds a pleasant cheesy flavor that’s great for vegan dishes.
- You can substitute dairy-free milk with regular cream or milk if not dairy-free.
- Small pasta rings or ditalini are crucial to mimic classic Spaghettios; adjust cooking times based on the pasta used.
- Adding lentils or vegan meat crumbles boosts protein content, making the meal more filling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
