Ah, Homemade Spaghettios! Just saying it brings me back to those cozy childhood days, sitting at the kitchen table with a big bowl of those little pasta rings. But let’s be honest, the canned versions never quite captured the magic of fresh ingredients. That’s why I’m so excited to share my homemade take on this classic dish! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s way tastier and healthier than anything in a can. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into creating the best Homemade Spaghettios you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients List
1 cup small pasta, uncooked (like spaghetti or elbow macaroni)
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup water
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese, optional (for that melty goodness)
How to Prepare Homemade Spaghettios
Making Homemade Spaghettios is a breeze, and I promise it’ll be one of the easiest and most satisfying meals you whip up! Let’s get started, and I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your dish is a hit.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First up, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your small pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it! You want that perfect bite that’ll hold up well in the sauce.
While your pasta is cooking, grab a medium pot and combine the tomato sauce, water, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Now, bring that sauce mixture to a simmer over medium heat. You’ll start to smell those delicious flavors merging—trust me, it’s heavenly! Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let everything meld together nicely.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the sauce. Stir well to coat all that pasta goodness in the rich sauce. You want every little piece to soak up that flavor!
Step 5: Add Cheese
If you’re feeling a bit cheesy (who isn’t?), now’s the time to stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into the sauce. This step is optional, but it definitely adds a creamy, dreamy touch that takes your Homemade Spaghettios to the next level!
Step 6: Serve
Finally, serve your Homemade Spaghettios hot in bowls. You can garnish with a little more cheese or some fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this nostalgic dish that’s made with love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time—ready in just 25 minutes!
Simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
Comforting flavor that brings back childhood memories.
Healthier than canned versions—no preservatives or artificial flavors.
Customizable with your favorite veggies or extra cheese.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick lunch.
It’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone!
Tips for Success
To make your Homemade Spaghettios truly shine, here are a few pro tips that I swear by! First, don’t overcook your pasta—let it stay al dente, so it holds up well in the sauce. If you’re adding veggies like peas or carrots, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender. Also, taste your sauce as it simmers! Adjust the seasoning with more salt or a pinch of sugar if the tomato flavor is too tangy. And if you want extra creaminess, use a blend of cheeses or even a splash of cream. Lastly, serve it fresh! The flavors are at their best straight from the pot, making each bowl a comforting delight. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for each serving of your Homemade Spaghettios! Keep in mind that these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 400mg
This comforting meal packs a satisfying punch, making it perfect for a quick bite or a family dinner. Enjoy the wholesome goodness without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making Homemade Spaghettios? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common ones:
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While small pasta like spaghetti or elbow macaroni works best, feel free to experiment with shapes like shells or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
What can I add to make it healthier?
Adding veggies is a great idea! Throw in some peas, diced carrots, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. They add nutrition and color without altering the comforting flavor.
Can I make this in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Homemade Spaghettios?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as the pasta can become mushy. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or as leftovers!
What if I don’t have tomato sauce?
No worries! You can use crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste mixed with some water and seasoning as a substitute. Just adjust the flavors to your liking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve whipped up a delicious batch of Homemade Spaghettios, and now you have some leftovers! No problem at all. To keep them fresh, just let the pasta cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. This helps seal in all that yummy flavor and keeps it from drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, but trust me, it won’t last that long if people know it’s there!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is super easy! Just pop them in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to loosen it up and bring back that saucy goodness. You can also use the microwave—just place your Spaghettios in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (but leave a little vent for steam), and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot. Voilà! You’ve got a quick and comforting meal ready to go!
Homemade Spaghettios are a simple and delicious version of the classic canned pasta dish. This recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting meal with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup small pasta (e.g., spaghetti or elbow macaroni)
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup water
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
In a pot, combine tomato sauce, water, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir well.
If using, stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
Serve hot in bowls.
Notes
You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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