Simple and Inexpensive Spaghetti

Transform your weeknight dinners with this Simple and Inexpensive Spaghetti recipe—a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser that's equal parts quick and delicious. This dish brings classic Italian flavors to your table with minimal effort, featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a vibrant homemade tomato sauce infused with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of crushed red pepper for a subtle kick. Dried basil adds an earthy note, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and optional fresh parsley garnish take this meal to the next level. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy days and serves up to four generous portions. Whether you're craving comfort food or a frugal feast, this wholesome spaghetti dish delivers hearty, homemade satisfaction with every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 pieces garlic cloves
• 0.5 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Step 2

Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

Step 3

While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves, then add them to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5

Add the crushed red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Step 6

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.

Step 7

Season the sauce with dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9

Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the tomato sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 10

Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(896.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1202.6

Total Fat 47.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 15.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 50mg	0%
Sodium 3716.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 151.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.7g	0%
Total Sugars 20.4g
Protein 49.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 724.1mg	0%
Iron 10.8mg	0%
Potassium 1577.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.9%

Protein: 15.9%

Carbs: 49.1%