Classic Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. 1.Cook the Spaghetti

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. 2.Prepare the Marinara Sauce

   While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. 3.Simmer the Sauce

   Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.

4. 4.Combine and Serve

   Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

5. 5.Garnish and Serve

   Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large saucepan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Tips

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering.
• You can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• To make the sauce smoother, use an immersion blender to blend it after simmering.
• Store leftover spaghetti and marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions