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🍝 Homemade Spaghetti‑O’s

by

 A Nostalgic Comfort Favorite Reimagined

Remember the joy of opening a can of Spaghetti‑O’s as a kid? That sweet‑tomato sauce hugging soft pasta rings was pure comfort. But why settle for canned when you can make a homemade version that’s healthier, customizable, and bursting with flavor?

Feel free to pair this with our cozy guide on One‑Pot Dinners for an easy cleanup meal idea.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1½ cups small pasta rings (anelletti or ditalini) 🍝

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter 🧈

  • ½ small onion, finely chopped 🧅

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄

  • 1 6 oz can tomato paste 🍅

  • 1 15 oz can tomato sauce 🍅

  • 1 cup water or vegetable broth 💧

  • ½ cup milk or cream 🥛

  • 1 tsp sugar or honey 🍯

  • ½ tsp salt 🧂

  • ¼ tsp black pepper ⚫

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional) 🌶️

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan 🧀

  • Optional: mini meatballs or ground beef 🍖

Preparation Method

  1. Cook the pasta
    Boil pasta rings until al dente (or slightly softer for nostalgia). Drain and set aside.

  2. Make the sauce
    Warm oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onions for 2–3 minutes, then add garlic for 30 seconds.

  3. Build the tomato base
    Stir in tomato paste and sauce. Cook for 2 minutes, then add water, milk, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika.

  4. Simmer
    Let mixture simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently.

  5. Combine pasta & cheese
    Add pasta rings and stir in cheese until creamy and evenly coated.

  6. Add meatballs (optional)
    Fold in pre‑cooked mini meatballs and warm through.

Tips and Tricks

  • Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

  • For ultra‑creamy texture, add a splash of milk or a pat of butter at the end.

  • Taste before sweetening; many tomato sauces are already sweet.

  • For a silky smooth sauce, give it a quick blend with an immersion blender.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Vegan: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast. See our Vegan Comfort Meals section for more.

  • Gluten-free: Swap in gluten-free pasta rings or small elbows.

  • Low-sugar: Omit sugar or replace with stevia/date paste.

  • Spicy variation: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

  • High-protein: Stir in cooked lentils or ground turkey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in a wide bowl, complementing with:

  • Grilled cheese sandwiches 🧀

  • A green salad 🥗

  • Creamy garlic toast 🥖

Garnish with extra parmesan, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet finish. Leftovers keep for 3–4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months—just add milk when reheating to restore that creamy texture.

Compelling Conclusion

Making homemade Spaghetti‑O’s brings back childhood comfort with fresh, wholesome flavors. It’s fun, flexible, and perfect for feeding both kids and nostalgic adults.

Give it a try, then share your favorite twist or secret ingredient below!
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