Super Easy Homemade Cheesy Spaghetti O's Recipe
This Super Easy Homemade Cheesy Spaghetti O's recipe is a comforting, flavorful pasta dish made with small pasta shapes simmered in a garlicky, herby tomato sauce enriched with parmesan and pecorino cheeses. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels both nostalgic and gourmet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Sauce Base
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Chili flakes, to taste
- 1/3 cup tomato paste
Pasta and Seasoning
- 2 cups Anellini or other small pasta
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Cheese and Herbs
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated pecorino cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt together the salted butter, extra virgin olive oil, chopped garlic, fresh oregano, and chili flakes. Cook the mixture until the butter turns golden and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Tomato Paste and Water: Reduce the heat to low and stir the tomato paste into the butter and oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor, then pour in 3 cups of water. Increase the heat to high to bring the liquid to a boil.
- Cook Pasta with Seasonings: Once boiling, add the Anellini pasta along with onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir frequently and cook the pasta until al dente, which should take about 12 minutes, ensuring it absorbs the sauce and flavors well.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Basil: When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed but still saucy, reduce heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese, pecorino cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce coating the pasta.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the cheesy spaghetti O's immediately, topped with additional fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this comforting homemade dish warm right from the pot.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes according to your taste.
- If Anellini pasta is unavailable, use other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or orzo.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to taste, especially salt and pepper.