SPAGHETTI O’S PASTA

OMG! OMG! This was definitely one of those throwback meals I have been anxious to recreate. See, my Sister loved, loved, loved Spaghetti O’s Pasta growing up. Honestly, I think she ate the canned pasta version on a daily basis! If I am not mistaken, she has a few cans in her pantry now. Homemade Spaghetti O’s are so very simple to make. One can prepare this tomato pasta in about ten minutes. Not only will this dish from the 70’s transport you back in time, your kids will also love them. Spaghetti O’s are great to serve as a meal, snack or fill in a thermos for school lunches! I’m hopeful this childhood favorite, ring shaped pasta recipe brings back great childhood memories, for you, too!

Naturally, I created a short TikTok video showing you just how quick and easy this childhood favorite pasta dish is to make. Be sure to check it out in the recipe below.

WHERE TO FIND THE O-SHAPED PASTA

Using o-shaped pasta rings (is that a little redundant?) in this throwback pasta dish, really makes this recipe authentic.

Probably the most difficult part of this Homemade Spaghetti O’s recipe, is locating the pasta rings. Odds are, you will likely not find them readily available in the grocery store.

Initially, I was able to find a great lookalike from Creamettes. However, during a recent visit to a local Italian market, I spotted Anelli pasta. Anelli are perfectly round, thin, o-shaped pasta. If you cannot locate either of the two pastas mentioned above, substitute using alphabets, ditalini or pastina.

TIPS ON MAKING HOMEMADE SPAGHETTI O’S

Take note that this kid-friendly pasta dish does NOT include “yucky” onions and/or garlic. Feel free to add if you want. I would suggest a slight sauté prior to adding the tomato sauce and paste.

This simple pasta dish can be done in just about 10 minutes. So, timing is everything! As soon as the water comes to a boil, salt the water and drop the pasta.

Proceed in making the sauce:

• Use a good quality tomato sauce, or pulse whole tomatoes in a food processor.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt much better than store-bought.
• Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese to avoid clumping. Just a little at a time.
• Use pasta water to help thin out the sauce.
• Cook the pasta to very al dente. The pasta will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Do NOT drain and/or rinse the pasta. Add directly to the pot.

What about the mini meatballs?

So, the first time I tried making this throwback pasta a few years ago, I left out the meatballs. Honestly, I do not recall my sister eating the Spaghetti O’s with meatballs.

However, my Hubby wanted meatballs, so I gave him meatballs. As an addition to this kid-friendly pasta dish, the meatballs should be kept super-simple. For time management, make the meatballs first, allow them to bake as you start the Spaghetti O’s.

To make mini meatballs:

• 3/4 lb. ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl. Roll out into teeny, tiny meatballs. Bake on a parchment lined baking pan for just about five minutes. Add into the Spaghetti O’s after the addition of the pasta rings.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH SPAGHETTI O’S

As children, I remember opening up that can of Spaghetti O’s, dumping them into a pot and going to town.

For a more balanced meal, here are a few suggestions:

• side salad
• garlic bread/toast
• sandwich
• steamed vegetables

Seal leftovers in an air-tight container and store in fridge for up to two days. Freezing is not suggested given the addition of the cream and delicate nature of the pasta shape.

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I am more than just recipes. I love fashion and style too! Most importantly, I love my Family (my Hubby and my Fur Babies). My Husband (aka my “Kitchen Bitch”) means the world to me. He’s pretty damn cool too. Not only is he one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, he also has had a lengthy career in professional hockey. Not only winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the early ’90’s, but most recently winning the Calder Cup with the Charlotte Checkers, amongst many other accolades. If you live in Charlotte and play hockey, or have a family member who plays, be sure to contact him!

Our life has changed dramatically in the past few years with the passing of our two goldendoodles, Vegas and Viva. We were lucky enough to have Vegas for five years (totally wish it was longer). Most recently, losing our Viva to a brain tumor in July of 2020. We welcomed our mini goldendoodle 7, almost seven years ago. We just added the amazing Hazel! Of course, I am always posting tons and tons of photos! Be sure to check out my recipe for Pet Bone Broth! This broth is super rich in nutrients and will provide your pet with a multitude of health benefits!

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