Imagine a cozy evening, where the aroma of savory tomato sauce fills your kitchen, transporting you back to childhood. Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs is the perfect dish to evoke those nostalgic memories while delighting your taste buds. With its tender pasta swimming in a rich, tangy sauce, this meal offers an irresistible combination of comfort and flavor that will make you want to savor every bite.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or need a quick lunch that satisfies, this recipe is designed for both speed and taste. You’ll learn how to whip up a delightful version of SpaghettiOs in no time, using simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. Get ready to impress yourself and others with this quick yet tasty dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs
This nostalgic dish gets a modern twist, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight repertoire.
- Quick to prepare — Whip it up in just under 20 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
- Kid-approved — A guaranteed hit with the little ones; they’ll love the familiar taste of this childhood classic.
- Budget-friendly — Utilize simple, affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank while satisfying your cravings.
- One-pot meal — Enjoy minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in a single pot.
- Customizable — Add your favorite veggies or protein to tailor it to your family’s tastes and dietary needs.
- Comfort food — Enjoy a warm, hearty meal that brings back fond memories and provides ultimate satisfaction.
- Healthy option — Control the ingredients for a wholesome alternative to store-bought varieties packed with preservatives.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Extra cheese for topping
Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Medium saucepan (for preparing sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Cup measures (for measuring broth and tomato sauce)
- Can opener (for opening canned ingredients)
- Blender or immersion blender (optional but helpful for a smoother sauce)
How to Make Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs
Prepare the Sauce
- Heat the olive oil. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the onion. Add 1 finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
- Add garlic and spices. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in tomatoes. Add a 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
Combine and Cook
- Add sugar and seasoning. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- Add pasta. Stir in 1 cup of small pasta shapes (like elbow macaroni) and 1-2 cups of water, depending on desired consistency. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cook the pasta. Cover and simmer for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
Finish the Dish
- Add cheese. Remove the pot from heat and stir in ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot. Spoon the SpaghettiOs into bowls and garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your quick homemade meal!
Tips for the Best Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs
- Use high-quality tomatoes — Opt for San Marzano or fire-roasted tomatoes for deeper flavor. They lend a more robust taste to your sauce.
- Salt your pasta water — Adding salt to boiling water enhances the spaghetti’s flavor. Use a generous amount to make a noticeable difference.
- Experiment with cheese — Try incorporating different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option to enrich the flavor.
- Customize the spice level — Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist that elevates the overall dish.
- Thicken the sauce naturally — If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce.
- Make ahead and freeze — Prepare a batch and freeze portions for quick meals later. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave when ready to serve.
Variations to Try
- Veggie-packed version — Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Pesto twist — Mix in a few tablespoons of store-bought or homemade pesto for a fresh herby flavor.
- Meaty addition — Brown some ground beef, turkey, or sausage and add it to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Herb-infused sauce — Add fresh basil, oregano, or a bay leaf while simmering for an aromatic kick.
How to Store Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving SpaghettiOs at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure the dish has cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Yes, SpaghettiOs freeze well. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Alternatively, warm on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using an oven, heat at 350°F for approximately 10 minutes, covered, until heated through.
Make-ahead Tips
Prepare the sauce and pasta separately in advance, then combine them just before serving to maintain the ideal texture.
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
| Serving Size | 1 cup |
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta for my Homemade SpaghettiOs?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just cook it according to the package instructions to ensure the best texture.
What can I substitute for the tomato sauce if I don’t have any?
You can easily use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree as a substitute. For extra flavor, add a dash of Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover SpaghettiOs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this recipe scales well! Simply double the ingredients, and ensure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the extra volume.
Why did my sauce turn out too watery?
If your sauce is too watery, it might not have simmered long enough. Allow it to cook for a bit longer to let some of the moisture evaporate and thicken the sauce.
What are some good sides to serve with Homemade SpaghettiOs?
Consider pairing your SpaghettiOs with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement the meal. A side of steamed vegetables also adds a healthy touch!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve, and cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
Ready to Make Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs?
There you have it — an easy and delicious recipe for Quick Homemade SpaghettiOs! This nostalgic dish is not only a delightful treat for kids but also a satisfying meal for adults looking to enjoy a quick comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend, it brings a smile to every table.
We invite you to give it a try and experience the joy of this homemade classic! Be sure to leave a comment below with your thoughts and ratings. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family or on social media, and bookmark it for your next cooking adventure. Happy cooking!