How to Make Perfect Spaghetti: Simple 20-Minute Recipe Guide

This easy spaghetti recipe takes only 20 minutes and uses simple ingredients to create restaurant-quality pasta at home. Here's how to make it:

1. Boil 4 quarts of water with 2 tbsp salt
2. Cook 12 oz spaghetti for 8-10 minutes until al dente
3. While pasta cooks, heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a pan
4. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute
5. Stir in 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
6. Simmer sauce for 10 minutes while pasta finishes cooking
7. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain spaghetti
8. Toss spaghetti with sauce, adding pasta water as needed for consistency
9. Finish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, and black pepper

Ingredients List

For 4 servings:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 quarts water
• 2 tbsp salt (for boiling)
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper

Pro Tips for Perfect Spaghetti

Follow these expert techniques to elevate your dish:

• Always salt your pasta water - It should taste like the sea for properly seasoned noodles
• Reserve pasta water - The starchy liquid helps bind sauce to noodles
• Don't rinse cooked pasta - Rinse removes starch needed for sauce adherence
• Add fresh herbs at the end - Basil retains vibrant flavor when added after cooking
• Toast dried herbs - Heat oregano and basil in oil for 30 seconds before adding tomatoes to release maximum aroma

Ingredient	Substitution Options	Why It Matters
Crushed tomatoes	Diced tomatoes (blended), tomato paste + water	Provides balanced acidity and body for sauce
Dried oregano	Marjoram (milder), fresh oregano (use 3x amount)	Essential for authentic Italian flavor profile
Extra-virgin olive oil	Avocado oil (high smoke point), butter (for richness)	Creates flavor base and carries other seasonings

Avoid These Common Spaghetti Mistakes

• Overcooking pasta - Cook to al dente (firm to bite) for perfect texture
• Adding oil to pasta water - Prevents sauce from sticking to noodles
• Using cold sauce - Always warm sauce before tossing with pasta
• Skipping salt in water - Results in bland noodles even with seasoned sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but canned tomatoes are preferred for consistent flavor year-round. If using fresh, choose ripe Roma tomatoes: blanch, peel, and crush 2 lbs fresh tomatoes to replace one 28oz can. Simmer 20-30 minutes to reduce excess water.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For vegan version, omit Parmesan or use nutritional yeast. Add 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms or roasted eggplant for extra protein and texture.

Why is my sauce watery?

Two common causes: 1) Not reducing sauce long enough - simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes to thicken; 2) Adding too much pasta water. Always start with 1/4 cup water and add more only as needed. Reserve pasta water before draining to control consistency.