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Easy Cheesy Spaghetti Recipe with Jar Sauce for Quick Busy Night Meals

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A quick and comforting cheesy spaghetti recipe using jarred pasta sauce and pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients and a creamy, melty cheese finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti pasta (regular or whole wheat)
  • 24 ounces jarred pasta sauce (marinara or tomato basil)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100 grams)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil or 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon salt to the water.
  2. Add 12 ounces spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
  4. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Pour jarred pasta sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine with garlic oil and simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Optional: Stir in heavy cream and butter for a silky finish. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Add drained spaghetti to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pasta. Toss until cheese melts and blends with the sauce.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh basil or sprinkle dried Italian herbs on top.
  11. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use medium heat to avoid burning sauce. Cover skillet briefly when melting cheese for smooth texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for best melt.

Nutrition

Keywords: easy spaghetti recipe, cheesy spaghetti, jar sauce pasta, quick dinner, busy night meals, comfort food, simple pasta recipe

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