Print

Easy Elevated Spaghetti Recipe with Rich Jarred Sauce for Perfect Dinner

easy elevated spaghetti - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and flavorful spaghetti recipe that transforms a simple jarred marinara sauce into a rich, homemade-tasting dinner with a few pantry staples and simple techniques.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti pasta
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar high-quality marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red wine or balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 4 quarts) to a boil.
  2. While waiting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped red onion; sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and onion is soft but not browned.
  3. Add the jarred marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
  4. Pour in 1/4 cup red wine or balsamic vinegar. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  5. Season the sauce with dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once the water boils, add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  7. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
  8. Drain spaghetti and add it directly to the sauce skillet. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if sauce is too thick.
  9. Tear fresh basil leaves and stir into the pasta and sauce.
  10. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

If sauce tastes flat, add a tiny pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Do not overcook pasta; it should be al dente to hold up against the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Fresh herbs add brightness and cut through richness. Vegan adaptations include skipping Parmesan or using plant-based alternatives. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, jarred sauce, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, marinara sauce, weeknight meal, simple spaghetti, Italian herbs, garlic pasta

Find it online: https://snappyspoon.com/easy-elevated-spaghetti-recipe-with-rich-jarred-sauce-for-perfect-dinner/