Irresistible Spaghetti Garlic Bread Easy Delicious Recipe
Ah, spaghetti and garlic bread—a pairing that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I still remember the first time I enjoyed this comforting duo. I was in college, living on a shoestring budget, but I discovered that spaghetti and garlic bread would be the ultimate dinner solution that even my friends loved. The aroma of garlic wafting through the air, the sight of a steaming bowl of spaghetti glistening with sauce, and the crispy, buttery bread that completed the meal; it was an experience that ignited my passion for cooking. So, today, I’m excited to share with you my go-to recipe for Spaghetti Garlic Bread—a delightful meal that’s both simple and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy weeknight dinner—ready in under 30 minutes!
- Budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.
- Customizable with your favorite pasta sauces and garlic bread toppings.
Ingredients
Let’s gather what you need for this culinary adventure. Remember, fresh ingredients yield the best flavors!
- For the Spaghetti:
- 8 oz of spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- For the Garlic Bread:
- 1 French baguette or any crusty bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for a pop of color)
- Salt (just a pinch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s jump into the cooking process! It’s as simple as boiling water and slathering on some butter.
- Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. This adds flavor to your pasta, so don’t skip this step!
- Cook the Spaghetti: Once the water is boiling, add your spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Warm the Sauce: In a small saucepan, gently warm your marinara sauce over low heat. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
- Prep the Garlic Butter: While your pasta cooks, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until well-combined and buttery smooth.
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette in half vertically and spread the garlic butter generously on each half.
- Bake the Garlic Bread: Place the baguette halves on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. The aroma of garlic fills the kitchen—just heavenly!
- Drain the Pasta: Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse—it’ll wash away all that lovely starch that helps the sauce stick!
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the pot you cooked the pasta in, combine the spaghetti with the warmed marinara sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir until everything is well-coated and heated through.
- Serve It Up: Plate the spaghetti with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you desire. Serve it with the warm, crispy garlic bread alongside. Feel free to pair it with a fresh salad or a glass of red wine for that Italian dining experience!
Pro Tips & Variations
This recipe is straightforward, but I love adding a little twist here and there. Here are some fun variations and pro tips:
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a bit of heat!
- Herb Infusion: experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano in the garlic butter for a unique flavor.
- Cheesy Bread: For extra cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend on top of the butter before baking.
- Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier choice.
Remember, cooking is about making it your own! So feel free to explore and adjust this recipe to match your taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
When you present this meal, it’s all about the coziness and warmth. I like to set the table with a colorful salad drizzled in balsamic vinaigrette, some extra Parmesan cheese, and maybe even a small dish of olives or artichokes on the side. If you’re enjoying a relaxing evening, a glass of red wine complements everything beautifully. And how about a candle or two? It really turns any dinner into a special occasion!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, believe me!), here’s how to properly store them:
- Refrigeration: Place the spaghetti in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The garlic bread can be stored in a separate container.
- Freezing: You can freeze the spaghetti for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool down completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. For the garlic bread, wrap it tightly in foil and then place it in a freezer bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce. For the garlic bread, wrap it in foil and pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great option for a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from regular pasta.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to bake the garlic bread, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften before spreading it on the bread.
What is the best type of bread for garlic bread?
A crusty French baguette or ciabatta works great for garlic bread. You want something that will hold up to the butter and garlic without getting soggy.
Can I add veggies to the spaghetti?
Of course! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are delicious additions. You can sauté them with the sauce or stir them in right before serving for a fresh touch.
How do I know when the spaghetti is al dente?
The best way to check is to taste it! Al dente should be firm but not hard. It should have a slight chew to it. If you’re unsure, start checking a minute or two before the package instructions say it’s done.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve made your own Spaghetti Garlic Bread, I hope you can feel that cozy, homey feeling wash over you. This meal is not just a recipe; it’s an experience meant to be shared with loved ones, or savored on a quiet night in. I’d love to hear how your spaghetti turned out or if you put your own twist on it—so feel free to drop a comment below! Enjoy your culinary adventure, and remember: cooking is all about love and happiness!
Irresistible Spaghetti Garlic Bread Easy Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor Spaghetti Garlic Bread with this simple tasty recipe Perfect for a quick meal or snack its sure to please Enjoy the flavor today
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Spaghetti Garlic Bread is a delightful meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and ready in under 30 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
Keywords: Spaghetti, Garlic Bread, Easy Recipe, Comfort Food, Italian Cuisine