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Say goodbye to bland canned Spaghetti O’s and hello to delicious homemade comfort! Made with simple, wholesome pantry staples, straightforward to prepare, and packed with nostalgic flavor, this spaghettios recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and easy but still crave that classic, creamy goodness. Simple, satisfying, and completely customizable – this dish is about to be your new go-to meal.

Overhead photo of a bowl of homemade spaghetti os in a white bowl with a slice of garlic bread next to the bowl.

Table of Contents

About these homemade spaghetti os

Tired of the canned stuff? Get the same delicious nostalgic taste of Spaghetti O’s with this homemade recipe that’s simply made with wholesome ingredients and one pot. Featuring tender small pasta, robust Italian flavors, and plenty of tomato goodness in every bite, you’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together. Plus, making spaghettios at home gives you the chance to customize it to your exact tastes – whether extra cheesy, sightly spicy, and with a touch of extra sweetness.

Say goodbye to preservatives and hello to a fantastic homemade version that’ll become your family’s new favorite. Whether you’re craving homemade comfort or looking for a fun twist on a childhood classic, this spaghetti o recipe delivers on taste and convenience!

If you’re looking for more comforting pasta recipes that are as fast as they are flavorful, be sure to check out these family-favorites next: Burst Tomato Pasta Recipe, Mediterranean Chicken Pasta, Philadelphia Cream Cheese Pasta, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese, Butternut Squash and Pasta, Red Sauce with Gnocchi, and this Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Healthier, Budget Friendly Ingredients. Skip the preservatives and artificial additives. This spaghetti o recipe uses fresh, wholesome, staple ingredients like tomato sauce, chicken bouillon or broth, dry ring pasta, and Parmesan cheese, giving you full control over what you’re eating.
  • Quick and Easy to Prepare. Ready in under 30 minutes with just one pot, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you need something fast, flavorful, and satisfying.
  • Completely Customizable. Want it cheesier? Add more Parmesan or toss in some mozzarella. Craving something spicy? Add your favorite hot sauce or red pepper flakes. You can easily tweak the flavor to fit your preferences and dietary needs.
  • Little and Big Kid-Friendly. The small pasta shapes and slightly creamy, perfectly cheesy tomato sauce make this homemade spaghetti o’s recipe a hit with kids (and adults too!). It’s a comforting, familiar meal with no added junk.
Overhead photo of dry ring pasta, tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, bouillon cubes, and seasonings neatly arranged on a kitchen counter.

Spaghetti o’s ingredients

  • Unsalted Butter and Olive Oil. Provide richness for sautéing the garlic and spices.
  • Garlic. You’ll need to peel and mince garlic cloves. In a pinch, use the stuff in a jar, frozen garlic paste, or swap in ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
  • Seasonings. A combination of onion powder, Italian seasoning blend, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper all provide flavor.
  • Tomato Paste. For concentrated tomato flavor. I suggest buying the kind in a tube for easier storage.
  • Tomato Sauce. Provides the classic tangy, slightly sweet base for the sauce, giving that signature spaghettio flavor. Look for low-sodium or no-salt-added tomato sauce to better control the salt level in your dish.
  • Bouillon Cubes. In my humble opinion bouillon is the best! It takes up virtually no space and delivers BIG flavor. Feel free to swap in vegetable broth or chicken broth.
  • Dry Pasta. Anelli or Anellini pasta provides the classic noodle texture that makes Spaghettios so fun to eat. But you can swap in any dry, small pasta shape you love, such as Ditalini or Elbow pasta.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar. A splash of ACV provides a hint of acidity and balances the homemade spaghettios.
  • Parmesan. Adds a savory, nutty, complex flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce.
  • Heavy Cream. A touch of cream lends a a beautiful rich finishing touch.
  • Substitution: Use half and half for a lighter option, or cashew milk (or even oat milk) to keep it dairy-free.
  • White Sugar. This is optional, but sometimes tomato dishes can be a little acidic. Use granulated sugar to sweeten the spaghettios.

Recipe variations

  • Cheesy Spaghettio-S. If you’re looking for an extra-indulgent dish, add extra parmesan. Or, incorporate other melty cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a richer, creamier sauce.
  • Spicy Spaghettio’s. Add bold flavors to your childhood favorite by adding red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a finely diced jalapeño for some heat.
  • Vegetable-Packed Spaghettios. Sneak in some finely grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the sauce. Or, you can blend in pureed vegetables such as butternut squash or cauliflower for added bulk without compromising the flavor too much.
  • Meat Lover’s Spaghettio. For an authentic take, stir in cooked mini meatballs before serving. Or you can add cooked ground beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a heartier, protein-packed meal.
  • Vegan Spaghetti-o. Swap out butter for vegan butter and use a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. And, be sure to replace the chicken bouillon with veggie bouillon for a fully plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Spaghettios. Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free versions of elbow macaroni or other small pasta shapes that will work great in this recipe.
  • Baked Spaghetti o Pasta. After preparing the homemade spaghetti o’s recipe, transfer it to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden. If you like a crunchy topping, you can even sprinkle some bread crumbs on top before oven-baking.
  • Bonus – Make it a Soup!  If you prefer a soupy version, simply add more chicken bouillon or broth to create a lighter, soup-like texture
Close-up photo of cooked ring pasta in tomato sauce.

how to make spaghettios

  1. Sauté Garlic and Spices. Heat the butter and oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over low heat. Once the butter melts, add the garlic, onion power, Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.  Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant. 
  2. Add Tomato Paste. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, until the tomato paste caramelizes. 
  3. Add Tomato Sauce and Bouillon Water. Stir the tomato sauce and bouillon water into the pot and use the back of a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Increase the heat to high and bring the contents to a boil.
  4. Add Spaghetti-o Pasta. Add the dry spaghetti rings to the pot and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and simmer the spaghettios until the pasta is just al dente.
  5. Finish SpaghettiOs and Adjust to Taste. Add the vinegar, cheese, and splash cream, if using. Stir well to combine. Then taste the SpaghettiOs and adjust for sweetness with sugar and seasonings as needed.  
  6. Serve and Enjoy Homemade Spaghetti Os. Ladle the spaghetti os into individual bowls and garnish with additional parmesan cheese if using. Enjoy!

Expert tips to ensure the most success!

  • Choose High-Quality Ingredients. The tomato sauce is the backbone of this spaghettios recipe, so starting with a premium sauce will elevate your entire dish.
  • Use the Right Pasta Shape. For the fun, familiar texture, stick with small pasta shapes like elbows, alphabet pasta, or mini shells that mimic the classic ring-shape look.
  • Deglaze the Pot. Be sure to use the edge of a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – that’s flavor!
  • Cook Pasta Until Al Dente. Avoid overcooking the ring pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture, preventing it from becoming mushy and ensuring it clings to and absorbs the sauce well.
  • Don’t Forget to Stir Often. Be sure to stir the spaghetti os occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking.
  • Add Vinegar for Balance. Just a couple teaspoons of apple cider vinegar brightens up the dish.
  • Add Cream for Creaminess. Stir a little heavy cream into the spaghettios before serving for a touch of richness. 
  • Balance the Sauce with Sweetness. Taste your sauce and add a pinch of sugar (or honey) to bring out the natural sweetness of your homemade spaghetti os recipe.
Overhead photo of cooked pasta rings with tomato sauce in a white bowl.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

Below you’ll find the most common questions and answers about making this recipe. If you have a question you’d like answered, please drop it in the comments section below!

Can I use any type of pasta to make spaghetti o’s?

Ideally, you should use anelli or anellini pasta if you’re looking for to replicate the nostalgic “spaghettios” feel.

However, if you can’t find spaghetti rings, you can use any small pasta shapes you love, such as elbow macaroni, mini shells, or ditalini, to make this homemade spaghetti os recipe. And, you can also try gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.

How do I make homemade spaghettios creamy?

To make the tomato sauce extra creamy, you can stir in a little heavy cream and/or a pat of unsalted butter at the very end of cooking – before serving. Start with one to two tablespoons and then add more if you’re looking for more creaminess.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Sure, you can make the flavorful tomato sauce ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better after the flavors have had more time to develop. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to cook the ring pasta. However, please note, you may need to add more bouillon water if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

What if my spaghettio recipe is too thick?

As the spaghetti ring past sits, it will absorb the tomato sauce. If you find that your tomato sauce is too thick, simply add more bouillon broth, water, cream, half-and-half, or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Start with small amount – around one or two tablespoons – stirring and tasting as you go to avoid making the sauce too runny and thin.

Can I add meat?

You sure can! Try adding cooked mini meatballs or sliced hotdogs (franks) for a Campbells classic. Or, add ground beef, ground turkey, or even Italian sausages for a heartier meal. Just be just to cook the meat separately and add it to the spaghettios toward the end of cooking. And, if you’re looking for an easy option, add shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken. However, please note, you will definitely need to add more tomato sauce and bouillon water to the recipe.

How do I make homemade spaghettio recipes healthier?

To make this dish healthier, opt for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for extra fiber. And be sure to opt for low-sodium chicken bouillon cubes or low-sodium broth and skip the granulated sugar.

You can also add fresh veggies, like shredded carrots or zucchini, and baby spinach without affecting the flavor of this homemade spaghettios recipe too much.

Serving this spaghettios recipe

  • Top with Extra Parmesan and Fresh Herbs. For a burst of savory flavors, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and minced fresh parsley or fresh basil on top of your Spaghettios before serving.
  • Serve with Bread. Buttery, crispy oven roasted garlic clove bread or fluffy homemade rolls are the perfect side to dip into the rich, creamy sauce of homemade Spaghettios.
  • Pair with a Simple Salad. A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully alongside Spaghetti os.
  • Serve with Roasted Vegetables. Roasted your favorite medley of vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and/or Brussels sprouts for are an easy, healthy side that pairs perfectly with tomato-based pasta.
  • Add a Side of Fruit: Sweet fresh fruits like apple slices, grapes, sliced oranges, or sugared berries provide a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of this homemade spaghettios recipe.

Unique serving ideas

  • Top with Crispy Bacon or Pancetta: For an indulgent twist, crumble crispy bacon or crispy pancetta on top of your homemade Spaghetti o. The salty, smoky flavor adds an unexpected depth and crunch to the dish.
  • Serve in a Bread Bowl: For a fun presentation, serve your tomato-ey pasta in an edible bread bowl. The soft, pillowy bread soaks up the sauce and creates an extra layer of flavor.
  • Add a Dollop of Pesto: A spoonful of tomato pesto on top for a rich and vibrant tomato flavor that complements beautifully with the sauce.
  • Serve with Grilled Cheese: For an ultra-comforting meal, serve your homemade spaghetti os recipe with a side of melty, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches.

Storing leftovers

  • Refrigerator Storage: Allow the spaghetti o pasta to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm the Spaghettios on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally or in the microwave for 30 to 60 second increments until heated through.
    • Reheating-Tip: Please note, the homemade spaghettios thicken up significantly during storage. You may want to consider adding a splash or two of broth, cream, or water to loosen the tomato sauce as needed.
  • Freezing Instructions: Unfortunately, I don’t recommend freezing homemade spaghettio recipes.  In. general, it’s not recommended to free pasta dishes as they become mushy during thawing and reheating.
Action photo of a spoon scooping spaghetti os from a white bowl.

If you’re looking for a homemade spaghettios recipe that’s quick and as satisfying to eat as it is easy to make, this one is sure to hit the spot! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that brings the nostalgia of childhood meals to the table in a better way. Until next time, friends, cheers!

Cheyanne

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More tomato sauce and pasta recipes!

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Overhead photo of a bowl of homemade spaghettios garnished with parmesan cheese in a white bowl.

Homemade Spaghettios

5 from 1 vote
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Say goodbye to bland canned Spaghetti O’s and hello to delicious homemade comfort! Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, straightforward to prepare, and packed with nostalgic flavor, this spaghettios recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and easy but still crave that classic, creamy goodness. Simple, satisfying, and completely customizable – this dish is about to be your new go-to meal.

Equipment

  • 1 Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Wooden Kitchen Spoon

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • Sauté Garlic and Spices: Heat the butter and oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over low heat. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic, onion power, Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, and season with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt and heaping ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 45 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Add Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and increase the heat to medium. Cook, stirring, until the tomato paste caramelizes, about 2 minutes.
  • Add Tomato Sauce and Bouillon Water: Stir the tomato sauce and bouillon water into the pot and use the back of a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Increase the heat to high and bring the contents to a boil.
  • Add Spaghetti-o Pasta: Add the dry pasta noodles to the pot and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Simmer the spaghettios for 13-16 minutes, or until the pasta is just al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
  • Finish SpaghettiOs and Adjust to Taste: Add the vinegar, parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of cream, if using. Stir well to combine. Then taste the SpaghettiOs and adjust for sweetness with sugar and seasonings as needed.
  • Serve and Enjoy Homemade Spaghetti Os: Ladle the spaghetti os into individual bowls and garnish with additional grated cheese if using. Enjoy!
    Overhead photo of a bowl of homemade spaghettios garnished with parmesan cheese in a white bowl.

Notes

  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 4 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 389kcal    Carbohydrates: 64g    Protein: 13g    Fat: 9g    Saturated Fat: 3g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g    Monounsaturated Fat: 4g    Cholesterol: 14mg    Sodium: 412mg    Potassium: 273mg    Fiber: 4g    Sugar: 6g    Vitamin A: 578IU    Vitamin C: 6mg    Calcium: 89mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: dinner, entree
Cuisine: American

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