The Bear Spaghetti

why make this recipe

The Bear Spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines classic Italian flavors with a simple cooking method, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. This recipe elevates basic spaghetti into something truly special, thanks to its rich and flavorful sauce. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal, hosting dinner guests, or simply craving comfort food, this dish has everything you need. The use of fresh ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, basil, and garlic infuses the spaghetti with delicious aromas and a taste that’s hard to resist.

Furthermore, the cooking techniques used in this recipe are straightforward, allowing you to easily master the art of creating a homemade spaghetti sauce. By cooking the onions slowly with butter, you create a depth of flavor that packs a punch in every bite. Plus, the option to customize the recipe with various types of cheese, herbs, or even protein, makes it versatile for any occasion.

how to make Bear Spaghetti

Ingredients :

• 220g spaghetti
• 80ml olive oil
• 1 (400g) can chopped San Marzano tomatoes or high-quality chopped Italian tomatoes
• 1/2 large yellow onion
• 1/2 packet fresh basil leaves or 12g basil leaves
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3 cloves garlic
• 60g butter
• Salt, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, to garnish (optional)

Directions :

1. Infuse the oil. Start by placing 80ml of olive oil into a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Smash and peel the 3 cloves of garlic and add them to the oil. Then, sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes and the 1/2 packet of fresh basil leaves. As the oil heats up, it will cook the garlic and basil, releasing their flavors into the oil. Once it begins to simmer, let it go for 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts. After this, remove the saucepan from heat and let the oil sit to infuse.

2. Cook the spaghetti. While your oil is infusing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 220g of spaghetti and cook according to the packet instructions until it reaches al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This will be used later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

3. Prepare the onion and sauce. Take 1/2 of the large yellow onion and slice it in half through the root. Peel off the skin, ensuring to keep the root intact, as this helps hold the onion together while cooking. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, place 60g of butter and a splash of olive oil over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, place the onion half into the pot, cut-side down. Sauté the onion for about 8 minutes until it turns golden brown on the cut side and the butter slightly browns.

4. Add the tomatoes. Now, it’s time to add the canned San Marzano tomatoes to the pot with the browned onion. If you are using whole tomatoes, gently break them apart with a wooden spoon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat. Season with salt to taste. Cover the pot with a tightly-fitting lid and let the sauce simmer on low for about 8 minutes.

5. Combine the sauces. After the simmering time, carefully remove the cooked onion halves from the pot and discard them. Next, pour in the basil-infused oil you prepared earlier into the tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt. If the sauce seems thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water and allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes.

6. Blend and combine. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot, ensuring it’s well mixed. You want a nice, even consistency that clings to the spaghetti without being too watery.

7. Combine pasta and sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the sauce. Gently toss until every strand of spaghetti is evenly coated in the delicious sauce. If you want a little more sauce or additional moisture, feel free to add in a bit more of the reserved pasta water.

8. Serve it up! Serve your Bear Spaghetti immediately, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few leaves of fresh basil, if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it remains tasty even as leftovers.

how to serve Bear Spaghetti

Serving Bear Spaghetti is a satisfying experience that enhances the meal further. Here are some simple guidelines to consider:

• Plating: Use a large serving bowl or individual plates to serve the spaghetti. Twirl the pasta with a fork or tongs to create a nice nest of spaghetti before plating. This makes for an appealing presentation.

• Garnishing: Always finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds flavor and a wonderful creamy texture. Fresh basil leaves can also be thrown on top for color and a fresh taste.

• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine or sparkling water accentuates this meal nicely.

how to store Bear Spaghetti

Should you have any leftovers, storing Bear Spaghetti is simple:

• In the refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it on the stove or microwave. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, add a little water or broth while reheating to return it to its desired consistency.

• Freezing: If you need to store Bear Spaghetti for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the cooled spaghetti and sauce in a freezer-friendly container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then heat on the stove over low until warmed through, adding water if necessary.

tips to make Bear Spaghetti

Here are some useful tips to enhance your Bear Spaghetti and make cooking it even more enjoyable:

• Quality ingredients: Since this recipe relies on few ingredients, using high-quality ones is key. Opt for authentic San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil to elevate the overall flavor.

• Infusion time: Allowing the garlic and basil to infuse in the oil adds depth to the dish. Don’t rush this step, as it significantly impacts the aroma and taste of the sauce.

• Don’t skip the pasta water: The reserved pasta water is more than just liquid; it contains starch that helps the sauce stick to the pasta beautifully.

• Customize flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of sugar to the sauce if you prefer a slight sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

variation (if any)

Bear Spaghetti is quite versatile, meaning you can easily switch up flavors or add ingredients to suit your taste:

• Protein: Consider adding grilled shrimp, chicken, or sautéed ground meat for a heartier meal.

• Vegetables: Toss in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and texture.

• Cheese combination: Mix in other cheeses, like ricotta or mozzarella, for added creaminess or explore different types of grated cheese for a varied flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?

Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative, providing more fiber and nutrients. Just be mindful that the cooking time may differ slightly, so check the package instructions.

What if I can’t find San Marzano tomatoes?

If you can’t find San Marzano tomatoes, any high-quality canned chopped Italian tomatoes will work well. Ensuring the tomatoes are ripe and flavorful is crucial for the best sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! To make Bear Spaghetti vegan, replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan option.

By diving into Bear Spaghetti, you’re not only creating a meal but also an opportunity to explore Italian cooking flavors in your own kitchen. Each step taken makes the dish not just a meal, but an experience! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Bear Spaghetti

Print Recipe

A delightful Italian dish that elevates basic spaghetti with a rich, flavorful sauce made from fresh ingredients.

• Author: lila-monroe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 220g spaghetti
• 80ml olive oil
• 1 (400g) can chopped San Marzano tomatoes
• 1/2 large yellow onion
• 1/2 packet fresh basil leaves (about 12g)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3 cloves garlic
• 60g butter
• Salt, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, to garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Infuse the oil: Place 80ml of olive oil into a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Smash and peel the 3 cloves of garlic and add them to the oil. Sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes and 1/2 packet of fresh basil leaves. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts, then remove from heat.
2. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 220g of spaghetti and cook according to packet instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
3. Prepare the onion and sauce: Slice 1/2 of the onion in half through the root, keeping the root intact. In a large pot, melt 60g of butter with a splash of olive oil. Sauté the onion cut-side down for about 8 minutes until golden brown.
4. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the canned San Marzano tomatoes and season with salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer covered for about 8 minutes.
5. Combine the sauces: Remove the onion halves from the pot and pour in the basil-infused oil. Stir to combine, adjusting seasoning if needed and adding reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes.
6. Blend and combine: Use an immersion blender in the pot to achieve a smoother sauce consistency.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Add more reserved pasta water if desired.
8. Serve it up: Serve immediately, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely before storing.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: spaghetti, Italian dish, comfort food, vegetarian recipe, homemade sauce