This Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort food — tender strands of spaghetti coated in a rich, savory tomato sauce made from ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a timeless Italian favorite that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to any table.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry family, this spaghetti recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without any fuss. The secret lies in the slow-simmered sauce , which develops deep umami notes and pairs perfectly with al dente pasta , fresh basil, and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese.
While store-bought sauces are convenient, nothing beats the taste of a sauce made from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients like tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, you can elevate this humble dish into something truly special.
This dish is incredibly versatile — serve it as-is for a satisfying vegetarian meal, add grilled chicken or meatballs for extra protein, or top with garlic bread and a green salad for a full dining experience.
Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, this spaghetti with tomato sauce is a must-have recipe in every home cook’s repertoire.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups crushed or diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to reduce acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, optional)
For the Pasta:
- 400g spaghetti (or any long pasta)
- Salt (for boiling water)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant — be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes to the pan. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add a teaspoon of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich in flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Toss hot spaghetti directly into the saucepan. Mix gently to coat each strand evenly with the sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Serve Like a Pro
Transfer to serving plates or a large bowl. Top with torn fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve warm with crusty bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips:
- Use fresh tomatoes in season for an even richer flavor.
- Stir in a spoonful of butter or cream at the end for added richness.
- Add meatballs, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a protein-packed upgrade.
- Make it vegetarian-friendly by skipping cheese or using vegan Parmesan.
- Save time by preparing the sauce ahead — it tastes even better the next day!
