If you’ve ever longed for a comforting bowl of classic canned spaghetti that bursts with flavor but without all the preservatives, this Homemade Spaghettios Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with a luscious tomato sauce, it transforms simple pantry staples into a warm, nostalgic, and satisfying meal that the whole family will adore. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy solo lunch, this recipe delivers that familiar, heartwarming taste with an easy homemade touch you’ll be proud to serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Homemade Spaghettios Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible. From the savory richness of butter to the tangy brightness of tomato paste, every ingredient contributes to the final magic.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity depth and helps sauté the onions perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings richness and creaminess for that decadent mouthfeel.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor that enhances every bite.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: The heart of your sauce, bringing smooth, tangy tomato goodness.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Balances the sauce with savory depth and keeps it hydrated.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for richness and color.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Cuts the acidity and rounds out the sauce’s flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Seasons everything and enhances the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings in herbaceous notes that complement the tomato beautifully.
- 1 cup small pasta rings (anellini or ditalini): Classic shapes that soak up the sauce perfectly.
- ½ cup milk: Adds creaminess and mellows the tomato’s acidity.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a luscious, cheesy hug in every bite.
- Optional: ½ cup mini meatballs or sliced hot dogs: Boost protein and add a kid-friendly twist.
How to Make Homemade Spaghettios Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add your finely diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until it releases its irresistible aroma. These aromatics set the flavorful foundation you’ll build on.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Sauce
Next, pour in your canned tomato sauce and chicken broth to the pot along with tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring it just to a simmer. This mixture will develop into a rich, tangy sauce that’s anything but plain, providing that signature taste you crave in a good Spaghettios bowl.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once your sauce is simmering, stir in the small pasta rings. Cook according to the pasta package instructions—usually about 10 to 12 minutes—stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the pasta tender but not mushy, perfectly absorbing the flavors and thickening up the sauce as it cooks down.
Step 4: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the entire mixture becomes creamy and luscious. If you’ve chosen to add mini meatballs or sliced hot dogs, now is the moment to fold them in, letting them warm through for a protein-packed comfort meal.
How to Serve Homemade Spaghettios Recipe
Garnishes
Though this recipe is delectable all on its own, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese can add a lovely burst of freshness and an extra layer of flavor. A few crushed red pepper flakes will also add a welcome kick if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crunchy side such as a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the creamy pasta. For a nostalgic pairing, garlic bread or buttery toasted rolls can never go wrong, soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on serving, try portioning your Homemade Spaghettios Recipe into individual ramekins topped with a golden breadcrumb crust under the broiler. Kids and adults alike will love the crispy top layer hiding that creamy, cheesy goodness underneath.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Homemade Spaghettios Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best done before adding the milk and cheese for optimal texture upon reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before finishing with dairy and warming gently.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the milk. Add a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick. Stir often until warmed all the way through and creamy once more.
FAQs
Can I make this Homemade Spaghettios Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit any meat additions to keep it fully vegetarian. The flavors remain just as delicious.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Traditional small pasta rings like anellini or ditalini are ideal because they hold the sauce so well, but you can also use other small shapes like elbow macaroni or orzo in a pinch.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free milk substitute and vegan cheese to create a creamy texture without dairy. Be sure the non-dairy cheese melts well for the best results.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s very mild, perfect for kids and anyone who prefers gentle flavors. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want to kick things up later.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling the ingredients works great. Just make sure your pot is large enough to cook the pasta evenly and stir frequently to prevent sticking or uneven cooking.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Homemade Spaghettios Recipe is like revisiting a beloved childhood classic but with fresh, wholesome ingredients and flavor that only homemade can bring. It’s quick, satisfying, and brings that cozy comfort food vibe straight to your table. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished go-to for family dinners and those moments when you need a little warm hug in a bowl.
Print
Homemade Spaghettios Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade Spaghettios is a comforting, kid-friendly pasta dish featuring tender small pasta rings cooked in a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce. This easy stovetop recipe combines savory tomato sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and optional mini meatballs or sliced hot dogs for a nostalgic and satisfying meal perfect for families.
Ingredients
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup small pasta rings (anellini or ditalini)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Protein
- ½ cup mini meatballs or sliced hot dogs for protein (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Base and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Stir in sugar, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the small pasta rings and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, approximately 10 to 12 minutes depending on the pasta type.
- Incorporate Dairy: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue cooking until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Add Protein (Optional): If using mini meatballs or sliced hot dogs, fold them into the pot and heat through evenly before serving.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the creamy homemade Spaghettios into bowls and enjoy as a comforting, easy family meal.
Notes
- Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the meat additions.
- For a creamier texture, add an extra splash of milk or a little cream during the cheese melting step.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Use small pasta rings like anellini or ditalini for the authentic Spaghettios feel.
