When it comes to pasta, few dishes evoke the same level of excitement as a well-crafted spaghetti dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, spaghetti has got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious spaghetti recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From hearty meatball subs to light and creamy seafood sauces, our list has something for everyone. And with a range of flavors and ingredients, you’re sure to find at least one recipe that becomes a new favorite. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some pasta magic, and let’s dive in!
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
A timeless Italian classic, this spaghetti bolognese recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 500g spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the minced beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Cook the spaghetti in boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bolognese sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss until coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This simple yet flavorful recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring garlic and olive oil as the main ingredients. With its rich and aromatic flavors, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Carbonara
A classic Italian dish that combines spaghetti, eggs, parmesan cheese, and bacon for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the spaghetti mixture if it seems too dry.
6. Add cooked pancetta or bacon to the spaghetti mixture and toss until well coated.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Meatballs
A hearty and satisfying Italian-American dish, this classic spaghetti with meatballs recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With tender meatballs and flavorful sauce, it’s an easy and comforting meal to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large saucepan, combine marinara sauce and meatballs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve spaghetti with meatball sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti Puttanesca
Spaghetti Puttanesca: A Flavorful Italian Classic
Puttanesca is a classic Italian pasta dish that originated in Naples, and its name literally means “whore’s style.” This spicy and savory spaghetti recipe is a twist on the traditional puttanesca sauce, which typically features olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies. Here’s a simplified version for home cooking.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced olives, capers, and anchovy fillets to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the puttanesca sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Marinara
A timeless Italian favorite, this spaghetti marinara recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Clam Sauce
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the brininess of clams.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cups fresh or canned clams, drained and chopped
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of clam juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add white wine (if using) and cook until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
4. Add clams, clam juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook until clams open, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with clam sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Alfredo
Savor the rich flavors of this classic Italian-American dish with its velvety sauce and al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the saucepan, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Pesto
This Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time. A simple combination of spaghetti, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious and aromatic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Mix well to achieve desired consistency.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss with the pesto mixture until well coated.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Primavera
This Italian-inspired dish celebrates the flavors of spring with a vibrant medley of vegetables, garlic, and herbs. A perfect recipe for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed bell peppers, snap peas, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water, then add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Spaghetti with Mushroom Cream Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender spaghetti pasta with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Lemon and Olive Oil
Brighten up your pasta game with this refreshing take on spaghetti. Lemon and olive oil combine to create a light, zesty sauce that complements the simplicity of al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta cooking liquid before draining the spaghetti.
4. Add the lemon-oil mixture and reserved pasta liquid to the cooked spaghetti; toss to combine.
5. Drizzle with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil; season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-18 minutes
Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic and Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic flavors of spaghetti with the rich, caramelized taste of roasted garlic and sweet tomatoes. A perfect twist on a familiar favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves garlic
– 2 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add roasted garlic and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add halved tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with tomato-garlic mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spaghetti with Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add sliced peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sausage mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian dish combines tender shrimp, garlic, and herbs with al dente spaghetti for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in white wine (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with reserved pasta water and shrimp mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish, featuring salty anchovies and crunchy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chopped anchovies and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until they dissolve into the oil.
4. Add breadcrumbs to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and breadcrumb mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Spinach and Ricotta
A delicious and comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of spinach, ricotta cheese, and spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, wilted spinach mixture, and ricotta cheese in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to twirl your fork around a plate of delicious spaghetti dishes! This collection of 18 mouth-watering recipes offers something for every occasion. From classic Spaghetti Bolognese and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti to seafood-inspired options like Spaghetti with Clam Sauce and Shrimp Scampi, there’s a dish to satisfy any taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and meat-based or light and veggie-focused, these recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, grab your apron, and start cooking up some spaghetti magic!
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