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
Scale
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.
