Name: Classic Tomato-Butter Spaghetti (20-Minute Comfort Dinner)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Spaghetti; 3 tbsp Butter; 2 tsp Garlic (minced); 1 can Tomatoes (28 oz, crushed); 1 tbsp Tomato paste; 1/2 tsp Basil (dried); 1/2 tsp Oregano (dried); 1/4 cup Pasta water (reserved); Salt + black pepper (to taste)

Flavour Quest Recipes

Classic Tomato-Butter Spaghetti (20-Minute Comfort Dinner)

Classic Tomato-Butter Spaghetti is the definition of simple comfort food. This timeless pasta dish uses just a handful of ingredients—tomatoes, butter, and spaghetti—to create a rich, silky sauce that coats every strand. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s proof that the simplest recipes are often the most satisfying.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

12 oz Spaghetti
3 tbsp Butter
2 tsp Garlic minced
1 can Tomatoes 28 oz, crushed
1 tbsp Tomato paste
1/2 tsp Basil dried
1/2 tsp Oregano dried
1/4 cup Pasta water reserved
Salt + black pepper to taste

Method

Boil spaghetti to firm al dente, drain, and reserve ¼ cup pasta water.
Melt butter in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste, let darken slightly.
Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt + pepper.
Simmer 8–10 minutes until thick and glossy.
Toss spaghetti into the sauce, and add pasta water if needed to coat.
Serve warm, season again lightly with black pepper.

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🔄 Variations

Add minced garlic or shallots for extra depth

Stir in red pepper flakes for gentle heat

Finish with fresh basil or parsley

Add a splash of cream for a rosé-style sauce

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano

Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette

Enjoy alongside a simple green salad

Finish with cracked black pepper and olive oil

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water

Freezing is not recommended, as the butter sauce may separate

💡 Tips

Use good-quality canned tomatoes for best flavor

Simmer gently to let the butter emulsify into the sauce

Salt the pasta water generously for balance

Toss pasta directly in the sauce to help it cling

❓ FAQs

Q: Why does tomato and butter work so well together?
A: Butter softens the acidity of tomatoes, creating a smooth, rich sauce without needing cream.

Q: Can I add cheese to this dish?
A: Yes. Parmesan or Pecorino Romano pair beautifully with this sauce.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Very. It’s mild, comforting, and loved by all ages.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes. Swap butter for a high-quality plant-based alternative.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.