Old-school spaghetti

over low to medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to combine it with the pasta. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems a little too thick or the pasta isn’t coated enough, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Continue tossing until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce and heated through.

5. Serve and Garnish

Serve your old-school spaghetti on individual plates or in a large serving dish. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with some fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Tips for the Best Old-School Spaghetti

• Use high-quality tomatoes: Since the tomato sauce is the base of the dish, using good-quality canned tomatoes or fresh, ripe tomatoes will make a big difference in flavor. Look for tomatoes labeled “San Marzano” for an authentic Italian taste.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: To get that perfect al dente texture, be sure to follow the recommended cooking time on the package. Taste it a minute or two before the time is up to check its doneness.
• Let the sauce simmer: A longer simmer allows the flavors to develop and deepen. Don’t rush it!
• Add a dash of olive oil: Before serving, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the pasta for a rich, finishing touch.
• Fresh herbs: If you have fresh basil, use it to garnish your spaghetti. It brings a burst of freshness and a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.

Variations of Old-School Spaghetti

While the classic old-school spaghetti is fantastic on its own, here are a few variations you can try to mix things up:

• Spaghetti with Meatballs: Add homemade meatballs to the sauce for a heartier dish. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
• Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio e Olio): For a lighter, more minimalist version, toss the pasta with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a simple yet flavorful dish.
• Spaghetti Bolognese: Add ground beef or pork to the sauce for a meat-based variation of the classic spaghetti.
• Spaghetti Primavera: Add fresh, sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes to the sauce for a colorful, veggie-packed version.

Why Old-School Spaghetti Will Always Be a Winner

Old-school spaghetti has stood the test of time for good reason—it’s simple, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of a rich tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a sprinkle of Parmesan is a match made in heaven.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal, grab a box of spaghetti and whip up this timeless dish. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time on the stovetop, you’ll have a plate of old-school spaghetti that will transport you back to the best meals shared around the table.

Enjoy the magic of homemade spaghetti, and embrace the comfort of this timeless classic!