Description
Homemade Spaghetti O’s are a nostalgic and comforting dish that brings the familiar flavors of the classic canned version but with a fresh, homemade twist. This version is made with simple ingredients like pasta, tomato sauce, and a blend of seasonings, all simmered together to create the iconic round, saucy pasta that both kids and adults love. You can easily make this dish in under 30 minutes, and it’s a perfect quick meal for busy days or as a fun comfort food treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup small pasta shapes (preferably ring-shaped or elbow macaroni)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for a creamier texture)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano, and cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom and become fragrant.
- Combine liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, broth (or water), and heavy cream (or milk), stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add cheese and pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and mix until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and stir until well-coated and heated through.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) to the sauce as it simmers for a creamier, cheesier texture.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
