Spicy Spaghetti
Spicy Spaghetti combines a robust tomato sauce infused with fennel, basil, marjoram, thyme, oregano, and red pepper for a flavorful, fiery pasta dish. Perfect for those who enjoy bold, aromatic flavors, it pairs well with meatballs and can be enjoyed as a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except spaghetti in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer covered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti with meatballs.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a splash of your favorite red wine. Crushed red pepper can be adjusted to taste for spiciness. If you're out of fennel seed, try using a pinch of anise. This recipe can serve as a base for variations like Mike'S Favorite Spaghetti Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spicy spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and fresh basil for garnish. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes that include meatballs, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Reheat spaghetti in boiling water for a minute or microwave until hot, ensuring it doesn't overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Spaghetti contains roughly 372 calories, with 19g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving, and remember to adjust the seasoning as flavors may deepen during storage.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta of your choice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you choose.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can enhance it by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce. You could also serve it with a side of Tofu Spinach Lasagna for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).