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Spaghetti Recipe with Crispy Garlic Bread Easy Homemade Dinner Idea

spaghetti recipe with crispy garlic bread - featured image

A cozy and comforting spaghetti dinner paired with crispy garlic bread, perfect for quick and satisfying weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 28 ounces (800 grams) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, a handful, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • 1 loaf French baguette or Italian bread (day-old bread works best)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, halved or finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water, then set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add 28 ounces (800 g) canned crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to let flavors meld.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the French baguette into 1-inch (2.5 cm) slices.
  6. In a small bowl, mash 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter with 4 garlic cloves (minced or rubbed on the bread) and a pinch of salt. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley.
  7. Spread the garlic butter generously on each bread slice. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy but the center stays soft. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Plate the spaghetti, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve alongside the crispy garlic bread while both are warm and inviting.

Notes

Use day-old bread for the crispiest garlic bread. Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Watch garlic bread closely when broiling to avoid burning. For vegan option, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine and skip Parmesan or use plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, garlic bread, easy dinner, homemade pasta, comfort food, quick meal, weeknight dinner