There’s a certain magic in the air when the kitchen fills with the aroma of a simmering pasta sauce. A pasta recipe for 8 people is more than just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that brings family and friends together around the table. As I stand by the stove, I can almost hear Mama Lou’s gentle hum as she stirred the pot, her hands moving with the grace of someone who had done this a thousand times. Cooking pasta was not just about feeding the body but nurturing the soul, a lesson she passed down to me and my sister Ouma during those long summer evenings in the old family kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Pasta Recipe for 8 People
This pasta recipe for 8 people is a true celebration of flavors and family. Crafted with love and enriched with tradition, it’s a dish that beckons everyone to gather and share stories as rich as the sauce itself. Mama Lou always said that good food makes good memories, and this dish is no exception. With each bite, you’ll taste the warmth of sun-ripened tomatoes, the robust notes of garlic, and the comforting embrace of fresh herbs. It’s a recipe that Ouma and I perfected over countless Sundays, tweaking and tasting until it was just right. This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners, where laughter was as plentiful as the pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Pasta Recipe for 8 People
- 1 pound of spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
Feast for Eight: The Ultimate Pasta Recipe to Delight Your Guests
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe for 8 people. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound of spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes. Mama Lou always said to let the sauce “kiss the pot” for a while to deepen the flavors.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat each strand evenly. Let it simmer together for a few more minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Remove from heat, stir in the fresh basil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Pasta Recipe for 8 People
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes. Mama Lou always said to let the sauce “kiss the pot” for a while to deepen the flavors.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat each strand evenly. Let it simmer together for a few more minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Remove from heat, stir in the fresh basil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Pasta Recipe for 8 People
To elevate this pasta recipe for 8 people, remember that patience is key. Allowing the sauce to simmer gently gives the flavors time to meld beautifully. If you can, use fresh herbs; they add a vibrant pop and aroma that dried herbs simply can’t match. And don’t skip the step of reserving pasta water; it’s a trick Mama Lou always used to ensure the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette, and a side of garlic bread, just like Ouma and I used to enjoy during our childhood. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a classic Italian sausage. A glass of Chianti or a crisp white wine complements the dish well, enhancing the flavors and making for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Learn more: Hearty Comfort in a Bowl: Discover the Ultimate Easy Beef Stew Recipe
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the pasta, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Enjoy it again, knowing it’s a dish that only gets better with time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe for 8 people?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe for 8 people include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make pasta recipe for 8 people?
The total time to make pasta recipe for 8 people includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe for 8 people ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe for 8 people can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with pasta recipe for 8 people?
pasta recipe for 8 people pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe for 8 people suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe for 8 people may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
As I prepare this pasta recipe for 8 people, I am reminded of the countless dinners shared with loved ones, the stories exchanged, and the bonds strengthened over a shared meal. This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, I hope this dish fills your home with warmth and your heart with lasting memories, just as it has mine.
