Are you looking for a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further than spaghetti, the classic Italian staple. With its long, thin strands and versatility in countless sauces, it’s no wonder why this beloved pasta dish has been a mainstay of Italian cuisine for centuries.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious spaghetti recipes that showcase the power of flavor combinations. From rich and creamy to light and zesty, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So grab a fork and join us as we dive into the wonderful world of spaghetti!
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta and Eggs
A rich and creamy Italian pasta dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. This recipe combines spaghetti, pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Add the cooked pancetta to the bowl and toss again.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 10-12 minutes for spaghetti
– 5-7 minutes for pancetta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti with Lemon Zest
A classic seafood pasta dish gets a bright and zesty twist with the addition of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tsp)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon zest and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and shrimp mixture. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Spaghetti
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach with a rich and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying spaghetti dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and spinach; cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Spaghetti with Fresh Basil
A classic Italian pasta dish gets a spicy kick with this simple recipe. This flavorful and aromatic sauce is made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil, served over al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the chopped basil. Serve the spicy arrabbiata sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti with Meatballs and Marinara
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this one-pot spaghetti is a weeknight winner. With juicy meatballs and rich marinara sauce, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 pound spaghetti
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Mix in the egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Form into meatballs and place on top of the cooked ground beef mixture.
6. Pour in the marinara sauce and add the spaghetti.
7. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the spaghetti is al dente and the meatballs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
This classic Italian dish gets a burst of flavor from fresh cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or weekends.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add pine nuts to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with pesto mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of garlic, chili flakes, and olive oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Add red pepper flakes and stir for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with garlic and chili flake mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Bolognese Spaghetti with Red Wine Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a hearty and flavorful comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. Tender beef and rich red wine sauce come together to create a mouthwatering combination that pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef mince
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef mince over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until reduced by half.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer sauce over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water with the red wine sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Grilled Chicken
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with tender grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple spaghetti dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and then drain.
4. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with lemon-garlic sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve grilled chicken on top of spaghetti and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Spaghetti
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of spaghetti, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound spicy sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sausage-shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and delicious spaghetti dish featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as snap peas, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and garlic; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in broth and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and vegetable mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado and Basil Spaghetti
This creamy spaghetti dish is a unique twist on the classic pasta, featuring the richness of avocado and the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the heavy cream and blend until well combined.
4. Add the blended mixture to the cooked spaghetti and toss until coated, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, drizzling with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Clams and White Wine Sauce
Experience the simplicity and elegance of a classic Italian dish with this Spaghetti with Clams and White Wine Sauce recipe. Fresh clams, garlic, and white wine come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add clams and cook until they open, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove clams from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in white wine and chicken broth; bring mixture to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until melted and combined.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and clam sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Spaghetti
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Spaghetti Recipe
A classic combination of flavors and textures comes together in this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. Sun-dried tomatoes and crumbly feta cheese add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the tomato mixture.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the pasta and season with salt and pepper, as desired.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
This recipe combines the classic Italian dish with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, resulting in a hearty and aromatic spaghetti dish. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Cook spaghetti in boiling, salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing with garlic sauce.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using) on top. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Spaghetti
This hearty dish combines spicy sausage, earthy kale, and tangy tomato sauce with spaghetti for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add kale, garlic, and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes or until kale is tender.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, sausage and kale mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti with Brown Butter and Sage
This classic Italian recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti with the rich flavors of brown butter and crispy sage leaves. The nutty, caramel-like flavor of the browned butter pairs perfectly with the earthy sweetness of the sage.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the chopped sage leaves to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until crispy.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the brown butter and sage sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Spaghetti with Olives and Artichokes
A flavorful twist on classic spaghetti, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the richness of olives and artichokes with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering spaghetti recipes that will elevate your meal game! From classic Carbonara to creamy Mushroom and Spinach, Spicy Arrabbiata to Mediterranean flavors, these dishes showcase a variety of ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meatballs, or vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. With flavor combinations as simple as garlic butter and shrimp to more complex recipes featuring pancetta and eggs, these spaghetti recipes will inspire your next meal.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
