There's something comforting about a plate of spaghetti. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, spaghetti has a way of making any meal feel satisfying and delicious.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but that doesn't mean it can't be elevated. From rich tomato sauces to creamy white pasta, classic spaghetti recipes can be as versatile as your cravings. Let's explore some delicious options!

1. Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

A true classic that never gets old, spaghetti with marinara sauce is the epitome of comfort food. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion and can be made in under an hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil (for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Steps:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the marinara sauce, coating it well.

5. Serve with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.

This simple marinara sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti and is a crowd favorite. You can also make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days.

2. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

If you're in the mood for something lighter but still packed with flavor, spaghetti aglio e olio is the perfect choice. This garlic and olive oil-based sauce is simple, quick, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• Salt to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Steps:

1. Cook the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pan. Add the garlic slices and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic turns golden brown.

3. Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat it in the garlic oil. If needed, add some of the reserved pasta water to help coat the noodles.

4. Season with salt, and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.

This dish takes just minutes to prepare but has bold, savory flavors thanks to the garlic and olive oil. It's ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.

3. Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti carbonara is a creamy, rich pasta dish that requires just a few simple ingredients. It's the perfect option when you want something comforting but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

• 4 oz pancetta or guanciale, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

2. While the pasta is cooking, cook the pancetta or guanciale in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano. Add a generous amount of black pepper.

4. Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the pancetta, tossing to coat.

5. Remove the pan from heat and quickly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring to combine. Add some reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

6. Serve immediately with extra cheese and black pepper on top.

Carbonara is one of those dishes that feels indulgent, yet it's surprisingly easy to make. The creamy egg-based sauce is perfectly complemented by the crispy pancetta.

4. Spaghetti Primavera

For a lighter, vegetable-packed version, try spaghetti primavera. It's a great way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your meal while still enjoying the deliciousness of pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1 bell pepper, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Steps:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.

3. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

5. Toss the cooked pasta into the pan with the veggies, adding salt and pepper to taste.

6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Spaghetti primavera is a colorful, healthy option that's full of vitamins and fresh flavors. It's a great dish to serve when you want something light but filling.

5. Spaghetti with Pesto

For a fresh, herbaceous twist, try spaghetti with pesto. This flavorful green sauce made from basil, garlic, and pine nuts brings a burst of flavor to any pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Steps:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a bowl, toss the pasta with the pesto sauce until evenly coated.

3. Top with toasted pine nuts and a sprinkle of Parmesan for added texture and flavor.

Pesto spaghetti is perfect when you want something quick but with a bright, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh pasta.

The Takeaway

Spaghetti is a versatile and timeless dish that can be adapted to fit your mood or the ingredients in your pantry. From classic marinara to creamy carbonara or veggie-packed primavera, the possibilities are endless. Each recipe has its own charm, whether you're looking for something quick, rich, or light. Next time you're craving pasta, try one of these classic spaghetti recipes and experience the comfort and joy of a homemade meal.