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Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Melted Cheese is a classic dish that combines the comforting flavors of al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something satisfying yet simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spaghetti dish is not only delicious but also incredibly straightforward. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be tailored to your taste.
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Comfort Food: A warm hug in a bowl.
- Customizable: Make it your own with various toppings.
- Kid-Friendly: A sure hit for picky eaters.
- Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Spaghetti with Marinara and Cheese
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce is heated through, add the cooked spaghetti to the pot. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Place the baking dish under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be firm to the bite.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan or provolone for a unique twist.
- For added depth, sauté garlic or onions in the olive oil before adding the marinara sauce.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a heartier dish.
- Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier alternative.
- Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
What to Serve With It
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a veggie boost.
- A glass of red wine to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
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Leftover spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist.
Recipe Card
Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Melted Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
2 cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the sauce is heated through, add the cooked spaghetti to the pot. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
5. Place the baking dish under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes: Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be firm to the bite.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
2 cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the sauce is heated through, add the cooked spaghetti to the pot. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
5. Place the baking dish under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes: Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be firm to the bite.
