Old-school spaghetti*

### Instructions

**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water for the sauce. Set the pasta aside while you make the sauce.

**Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce**
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

**Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings**
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (if using), and tomato paste. Add the oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

**Step 4: Toss the Pasta in the Sauce**
Once the sauce is ready and has thickened slightly, add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the noodles. The pasta should be evenly coated with the rich, flavorful sauce.

**Step 5: Serve and Garnish**
Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and richness. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

### Tips and Variations

– **Meat Sauce Option:** If you prefer a meatier sauce, add 1 lb of ground beef, pork, or turkey to the onions and garlic before adding the tomatoes. Brown the meat until fully cooked, then proceed with the recipe as written.

– **Add Veggies:** For a more vegetable-packed sauce, consider adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the onions and garlic. Sauté them until softened for added texture and flavor.

– **Fresh Tomatoes:** If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can substitute them for canned tomatoes. Simply chop them up and simmer them in the sauce until they break down and form a chunky texture.

– **Make it Spicy:** Adjust the heat level to your liking by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

– **Vegan Option:** Omit the Parmesan cheese for a vegan version of this dish. You can also sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

### Why You’ll Love Old-School Spaghetti

There’s a reason **Old-School Spaghetti** has stood the test of time: it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that is simple to make but packed with rich, satisfying flavors. The combination of savory tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and aromatic herbs makes this dish both familiar and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can add ground meat, vegetables, or spices to suit your taste, but it’s just as tasty in its most basic form.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for a special occasion, **Old-School Spaghetti** is a go-to dish that never fails to impress. It’s hearty, comforting, and always hits the spot, no matter the occasion.

So grab your ingredients, boil that pasta, and enjoy a classic plate of spaghetti that will make you feel right at home.

**Mangia!**