Homeade Spaghetti-O’s Recipe

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Homeade Spaghetti-O's Recipe


Introduction

The humble yet iconic dish, homemade Spaghetti-O’s, has been a favorite for many families for generations. Simple, comforting, and delicious, this dish brings back cherished childhood memories. If you’re looking to recreate that nostalgic experience right in your kitchen, this detailed recipe for homemade Spaghetti-O’s is all you need. Follow along to discover the ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking techniques that ensure a delightful meal every time.

Detailed Ingredients

Every great recipe starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to recreate homemade Spaghetti-O’s:

  • 2 cups of ditalini pasta (or any small, tubular pasta)
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 2 cups of tomato sauce
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 cup of miniature meatballs (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The time required to create this delectable dish is fairly minimal. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Follow these steps to craft the perfect homemade Spaghetti-O’s:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine.
  5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, sugar, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well.
  6. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. If using, add the miniature meatballs to the sauce and cook until heated through.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring gently to combine.
  9. Simmer the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the pasta is fully coated and warmed.
  10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience:

  • For a smoother sauce, consider blending the tomato sauce before adding it to the saucepan.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, use a mixture of grated Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meatballs.

Cook Techniques

Understanding the right cooking techniques can make all the difference:

  • Sautéing: Heating olive oil in the saucepan before adding the tomato sauce allows for a better melding of flavors.
  • Simmering: Slow simmering the sauce helps in developing a deep, rich flavor.
  • Boiling: Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures it has a perfect, slightly firm texture when added to the sauce.

FAQ

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about homemade Spaghetti-O’s:

  • Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Small, tubular pasta like anelli, elbows, or even small shells work well.
  • Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.