12 Delicious Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce Recipes

Ah, spaghetti with marinara sauce—the ultimate comfort food that never fails to warm the soul and satisfy the stomach. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share with loved ones, our roundup of 12 delicious recipes has something for everyone. From classic takes to creative twists, get ready to twirl your fork into some of the most mouthwatering dishes you’ll ever taste. Let’s dive in!

Classic Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce

Everyone loves a comforting bowl of spaghetti, and this classic marinara sauce recipe is a foolproof way to elevate your pasta night.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 28 oz canned whole San Marzano tomatoes, hand-crushed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add 8 oz dried spaghetti, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
3. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in 28 oz hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes, stirring to combine, and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Season sauce with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper, adjusting to preference.
7. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, and add spaghetti to the skillet with sauce.
8. Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
9. Stir in 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves and remove from heat.
10. Serve immediately, topped with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Rich flavors of garlic and basil shine in this vibrant marinara, clinging perfectly to each strand of al dente spaghetti. For a twist, top with a drizzle of olive oil and extra basil leaves for a fresh finish.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Meatballs

Spaghetti with marinara sauce and meatballs is a classic comfort dish that never fails to satisfy. Simple ingredients come together for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for juicier meatballs)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best taste)
• 1 large egg (farm-fresh for binding)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced for pungent kick)
• 1 tsp salt (fine sea salt for even seasoning)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for sharpness)
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil (for frying)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (rustic-style for depth)
• 12 oz spaghetti (high-quality durum wheat for al dente texture)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F to keep meatballs warm after frying.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to avoid tough meatballs.
3. Shape mixture into 1-inch balls. Tip: Wet hands prevent sticking.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Brown meatballs in batches, 3 minutes per side. They’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
5. Transfer meatballs to a baking sheet; place in oven.
6. In the same skillet, add marinara sauce. Simmer on low for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
7. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water for 9 minutes, until al dente. Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.
8. Return meatballs to skillet; simmer in sauce for 5 minutes.
9. Drain spaghetti; toss with sauce and meatballs. Tip: Add pasta water if needed for silkier sauce.
10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Noteworthy for its tender meatballs and robust sauce, this dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad. For a twist, serve over creamy polenta instead of pasta.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Sausage

Weeknight dinners don’t get easier or more satisfying than this classic combo. Spaghetti with marinara sauce and sausage is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 1 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lb fresh Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes with basil
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic to skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Tip: Don’t let garlic burn or it will turn bitter.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Simmering melds the flavors and thickens the sauce.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen. Tip: The starch in pasta water helps sauce cling to noodles.
6. Remove from heat and stir in torn basil. Season with salt if needed.
7. Serve hot, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Silky spaghetti coated in a robust, slightly spicy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the savory sausage. For a twist, try serving with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a drizzle of olive oil on top.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Mushrooms

Just when you thought spaghetti couldn’t get any better, this marinara and mushroom version proves otherwise. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti, high-quality durum wheat
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 28-oz can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly shaved

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add spaghetti, stirring occasionally, and cook for 9 minutes until al dente. Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in mushrooms, cooking for 5 minutes until golden and tender.
6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and salt, simmering for 10 minutes to thicken. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend half before adding mushrooms.
7. Toss drained spaghetti into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen. Tip: The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
8. Garnish with torn basil and shaved Parmesan before serving.

The spaghetti boasts a perfect bite, coated in a velvety marinara with earthy mushrooms. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Olives

Whipping up a quick yet flavorful dinner? This spaghetti dish combines tangy marinara with briny olives for a simple, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 cups robust marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add spaghetti, stirring occasionally, cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Tip: Avoid browning the garlic to keep its flavor sweet.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and olives, simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Drain spaghetti, then toss with the sauce in the skillet. Tip: Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce seems thick.
7. Garnish with torn basil and Parmesan cheese before serving.

Unbelievably easy, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Garlic Bread

Dive into a classic comfort meal that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish brings together the timeless flavors of Italy in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

– 8 oz dried spaghetti
– 2 cups rich, homemade marinara sauce
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
– 1/2 tsp sea salt
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
– 1 loaf crusty Italian bread
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add the spaghetti, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring to combine, and simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Drain the spaghetti, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and toss the pasta with the sauce, adding reserved water as needed to loosen.
6. For the garlic bread, preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise.
7. Mix the softened butter with minced garlic and spread evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 10 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
9. Stir the torn basil into the spaghetti just before serving.
10. Serve the spaghetti hot with a side of garlic bread.
Best enjoyed immediately, the spaghetti boasts a perfect al dente bite, coated in a vibrant, garlicky marinara. The garlic bread, crispy on the outside and soft within, makes for an irresistible side.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Parmesan Cheese

Spaghetti with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese is a classic dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Start with high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 28 oz canned San Marzano tomatoes, hand-crushed
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Stir in hand-crushed tomatoes and salt, bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Drain spaghetti, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
8. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with the marinara sauce.
9. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
10. Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves.
11. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

With its al dente texture and vibrant tomato flavor, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Try serving it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Fresh Basil

Fresh spaghetti with marinara sauce and basil is a classic dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, San Marzano preferred
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt, to season

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add spaghetti, stirring occasionally, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Simmering develops depth of flavor.
5. Drain spaghetti and add to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves. Tip: Adding basil off the heat preserves its vibrant color and fresh taste.
7. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.

Key to this dish is the al dente spaghetti coated in a vibrant, slightly spicy marinara. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of elegance.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Anchovies

This spaghetti dish combines the simplicity of marinara with the bold flavor of anchovies for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 4 oil-packed anchovy fillets, drained and chopped
• 1 28-oz can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until garlic is golden, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in anchovies; cook until they dissolve into the oil, about 2 minutes. Tip: Use the back of a spoon to help break them down.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and salt; simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with reserved pasta water; toss to coat. Cook for 1 minute more to let flavors meld.
6. Remove from heat; stir in basil. Tip: Adding basil off the heat preserves its bright color and flavor.
7. Serve topped with grated Pecorino Romano cheese.

Perfectly al dente spaghetti carries the rich, umami-packed sauce with a hint of heat. Try serving with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Ricotta Cheese

Easy to whip up, this spaghetti dish combines classic marinara with creamy ricotta for a comforting meal. Perfect for weeknights or when you crave something simple yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 24 oz jar high-quality marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes to let flavors meld.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water, tossing until well coated.
5. Remove from heat. Dollop ricotta over spaghetti, then sprinkle with Parmesan and basil. Gently toss to distribute cheese without fully mixing in.
6. Season with salt, serving immediately for best texture.

Not overly saucy, the dish boasts a perfect balance of tangy marinara and mild ricotta. Try topping with an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Spinach

Craving a quick, nutritious meal? This spaghetti dish combines hearty pasta with vibrant marinara and fresh spinach for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 24 oz jar high-quality marinara sauce
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, tightly packed
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Tip: Avoid browning the garlic to keep its flavor sweet.
3. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain spaghetti, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Add spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce.
5. Toss in spinach and stir until wilted, about 1 minute. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and salt.

Tender spaghetti coated in a robust marinara sauce, with pops of freshness from the spinach. Serve with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of richness.

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Shrimp

Great for a quick yet impressive dinner, this dish combines simplicity with bold flavors. Get ready to toss al dente spaghetti with a vibrant marinara sauce and succulent shrimp.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp rich extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, San Marzano preferred
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt to season
• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, and cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Tip: Avoid burning garlic to keep the sauce from turning bitter.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add cooked spaghetti and toss, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish with torn basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. Tip: Fresh basil adds a bright contrast to the rich sauce.

Lusciously coated in a tangy marinara, the shrimp adds a sweet, briny depth to each forkful. Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Ready to elevate your pasta game? Our roundup of 12 Delicious Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce Recipes offers a treasure trove of flavors to explore. Whether you’re craving classic simplicity or a twist on tradition, there’s a recipe here to delight your taste buds. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below! And don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!