Why You’ll Love This Spicy Spaghetti
Bold, fiery, and packed with rich garlic-tomato flavor, this Spicy Spaghetti is the perfect quick and easy meal for spice lovers! 🔥🍝
Made with simple pantry ingredients like garlic, chili flakes, olive oil, and tomatoes, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality pasta experience in just 15 minutes. Whether you love a mild heat or a full-on spicy kick, this pasta is customizable to your spice level.
It’s vegan-friendly, budget-friendly, and easily adjustable—add shrimp, chicken, or cheese to make it your own!
Ingredients (Serves 2-3)
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth)
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or fresh cherry tomatoes, halved)
- ¼ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (to thicken sauce)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Toss & Serve
- Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Pour in reserved pasta water (a little at a time) to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Garnish with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon zest.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this spicy, bold spaghetti!
Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Quick & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Perfectly balanced heat – Red pepper flakes add the right amount of spice.
- Rich, garlicky flavor – Simple ingredients pack a punch!
- Light yet satisfying – Great for weeknights or meal prep.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Adjust the spice level! Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference.
- Use fresh tomatoes – Swap canned tomatoes for cherry tomatoes for a fresher taste.
- Make it creamy! Stir in a splash of heavy cream or ricotta for a creamy, spicy sauce.
- Add protein – Grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu pairs perfectly with this pasta.
- For extra umami, stir in a teaspoon of soy sauce or miso paste.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)
- Calories: 400
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Serving Suggestions
- With a side of garlic bread for a crunchy contrast.
- Topped with burrata or mozzarella for a creamy twist.
- Paired with a fresh arugula salad for balance.
- With a glass of red wine for an elegant touch.
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