Homemade Spaghetti-O’s: A Retro Upgrade
There’s something about a plate of hot Spaghetti-O’s — those rings of noodles floating around in that cloying sweet tomato sauce — that food itself is plain and simple childhood nostalgia. What if you could duplicate that home-baked flavor, though, with no preservatives or processed food?
Home-made Spaghetti-O’s are just as delicious (actually better!), quick and easy to make, and a whole lot healthier than canned. With some simple pantry staples and under 30 minutes, you’ve got a delicious, kid-friendly meal that adults enjoy, too.
Why You’ll Love Home-Made Spaghetti-O’s
Healthier than canned: You control the ingredients—no preservatives or high-fructose corn syrup.
- Quick & easy: Under 30 minutes of fuss with minimal muss.
- Nostalgic: Great for rewinding the kid years.
- Kid-friendly: A hit with picky eaters and grown-up kids alike.
Ingredients for Homemade Spaghetti-O’s
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Anelli or ring pasta : 1 cup (uncooked)
- Tomato sauce : 1 can (15 oz) or 2 cups
- Tomato paste : 1 tablespoon
- Butter : 2 tablespoons
- Milk : 1/2 cup
- Sugar : 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
- Salt : 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion powder : 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder : 1/4 teaspoon
- Paprika (optional) : 1/4 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese : 1/4 cup (optional, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Get the Pasta Ready
- Boil salted water in a pot.
- Cook Anelli pasta al dente, just a bit tender (basically tender), 7–9 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
Tip: Substitute ditalini, macaroni, or small shells for Anelli if unavailable.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Melt butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, milk, sugar, and spices (salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika).
- Whisk until no longer lumpy and simmer over low, stirring frequently, 10–12 minutes.
Step 3: Mix Pasta and Sauce
- Mix cooked pasta with sauce.
- Slowly stir until pasta is well coated.
- Simmer together 3–5 minutes so the flavors will blend.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve into bowls, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot.
- Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Note: Based on 4 servings, not including Parmesan cheese.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheesy Spaghetti-O’s: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
- Meaty Spaghetti-O’s: Add cooked ground beef or small meatballs
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with olive oil, and plant milk
Pro Tips for Success
- Low & slow: Allow the sauce to simmer very low so as not to curdle the milk.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will hold up better in the sauce.
- Taste while you go: Taste and add spice, salt, and sweetness to taste.
- Use high-quality tomato products: They’ll be a big bonus.
Storage & Reheating
| Storage Method | How Long | Reheating Tips |
|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days in airtight container | Microwave with a splash of milk |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Thaw in fridge, reheat gently on stove. |
Is It Kid-Friendly?
Yes! Kids love the fun shape of the pasta and the sweet tomato flavor. And since you’re preparing it, you’ll be glad to know what they’re getting.
If kids are extremely picky, puree the sauce to an extremely smooth texture before mixing with the pasta.
What to Serve with Homemade Spaghetti-O’s?
This recipe is a stand-alone side, but pairs nicely with:
- Garlic bread or baguette
- Green beans or steamed veggies
- A grown-up salad
- Kid-friendly applesauce or fruit cups
Last Thoughts
Spaghetti-O’s from scratch are a tasty flash-from-the-past dinner that’s even more awesome and homemade-made. They’re fast, snap-your-fingers back-to-basics, and completely personalized to your liking. Perfect for weeknight meals, picky eaters, or anyone craving something comforting and reassuring.
So forgo the can, heat your saucepan, and serve atop this classic favorite that everyone will adore.