Grown-Up SpaghettiOs – A Gourmet Homemade Version
This Grown-Up SpaghettiOs recipe combines tender ring pasta with a homemade tomato sauce flavored with garlic, onions, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Rich, comforting, and easy to prepare, it offers a delicious upgrade to the classic childhood favorite while remaining simple enough for everyday meals.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces ring-shaped pasta (Anelli pasta)
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For Finishing
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add ring-shaped pasta.Cook according to package directions until al dente.Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add onion and cook until softened.Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.Stir to combine.
Season
- Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and sugar.Simmer for 15–20 minutes.Stir occasionally until slightly thickened.
Combine
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce.Stir until evenly coated.Mix in Parmesan cheese.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil.Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.Serve warm.
Notes
- Anelli pasta creates the authentic ring shape.
- Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor.
- Simmering develops a richer sauce.
- Sugar balances the acidity of tomatoes.
- Fresh basil enhances freshness.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully.