Homemade Spaghettios are a fun twist on the classic canned favorite! This dish features small pasta rings in a tangy tomato sauce that’s both tasty and comforting.
Making this dish brings back childhood memories, and you can add extras like cheese or veggies for a boost. I love how I can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Small round pasta is essential. Ditalini or anelli are great choices. If you can’t find them, you can use any small pasta shape like macaroni or even broken spaghetti.
Tomato Sauce: I like using store-bought tomato sauce for convenience, but crushed tomatoes work well if you prefer a chunkier texture. Feel free to add in some canned diced tomatoes for extra flavor!
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for this recipe due to their sweetness, but you can switch to shallots or even green onions if you want a milder flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you want to keep it dairy-free, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
A thick, rich sauce is what makes homemade Spaghettios special. To get there, remember to simmer the sauce long enough. Here’s how:
- Let the sauce cook on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps it thicken up.
- Using tomato paste boosts richness and aids in thickening, so don’t skip it!
- If the sauce is too runny, continue simmering for a few additional minutes until it reduces to your liking.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delightful sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta, creating a comforting dish. Enjoy the cooking process!
Homemade Spaghettios
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup small round pasta or pasta hoops (like ditalini or anelli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1/4 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking, giving you a total of about 35 minutes to enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade Spaghettios. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nostalgic meal anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small round pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 7-9 minutes until just tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients for the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce along with water or vegetable broth. Then, mix in sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and optionally the tomato paste. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Add Creaminess (Optional):
If you’d like a creamier sauce, stir in the unsalted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This will give your sauce a lovely richness and flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed to your preference.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked pasta hoops to the sauce and gently stir to coat each pasta ring evenly in the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your homemade Spaghettios warm in a bowl, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if you desire. Enjoy this comforting, delicious meal right away!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, and gluten-free pasta works just as well. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may vary.
How Can I Make This Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and butter, or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can be added along with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them until tender before adding the sauce!
