You gotta try this!!

You gotta try this!! is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by Corey & Alicia on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 50 min

Cost: $7.40 total, $1.85 per serving

Ingredients

  • 12 oz Spaghetti (dry, broken in half for easier stirring)
  • 2 pints Cherry Tomatoes (halved; about 500 g)
  • 6 cloves Garlic (peeled and crushed)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin preferred)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
  • ¼ cup Pasta Water (reserved from cooking the spaghetti)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (about 9‑10 minutes). Reserve ¼ cup of the hot pasta water, then drain the noodles.

    Time: PT12M

    Temperature: 212°F

  2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

    While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are very soft and start to burst (about 8‑10 minutes).

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Medium

  3. Blend the Sauce

    Transfer the cooked tomatoes and garlic to a blender. Add the reserved pasta water (¼ cup) and blend on high until smooth and slightly thickened.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Re‑heat the Sauce

    Return the blended sauce to the skillet over low heat, letting it warm through for 2‑3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: Low

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss vigorously with the wooden spoon until the noodles are fully coated and the sauce clings to the pasta.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: Low

  6. Finish with Parmesan

    Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pasta and toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy finish.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Serve

    Plate the spaghetti, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
15 g
Carbohydrates
70 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
4 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Wheat, Dairy

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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You gotta try this!!

Recipe by Corey & Alicia

A quick, creamy tomato spaghetti made by cooking cherry tomatoes and garlic until soft, blending them with a splash of pasta water, and tossing with al dente noodles and plenty of Parmesan. Inspired by Corey & Alicia's viral "best way to cook spaghetti" video.

EasyItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
24m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
45m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.40
Total cost
$1.85
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cook the cherry tomatoes until they are very soft and mushy.
  • Reserve pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
  • Blend the hot tomatoes and garlic with pasta water to create a smooth sauce.
  • Toss the pasta with the sauce while it is still hot to ensure coating.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter – keep a safe distance while sautéing garlic.
  • Blending hot liquids can cause steam pressure; vent the blender lid slightly or let the mixture cool a few seconds before blending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of spaghetti with tomato sauce in Italian cuisine?

A

Spaghetti with tomato sauce, known as "spaghetti al pomodoro," became popular in Italy in the late 19th century after tomatoes were introduced from the New World. It is a staple of everyday Italian cooking, representing simplicity, seasonal produce, and the Italian philosophy of letting high‑quality ingredients shine.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of spaghetti al pomodoro in Italy?

A

In Southern Italy, the sauce often includes extra‑virgin olive oil, fresh basil, and sometimes a touch of chili. In the North, you may find a richer sauce with butter or a splash of white wine. Some regions add anchovies or olives for depth.

cultural
Q

How is spaghetti al pomodoro traditionally served in Italy?

A

It is typically served hot, topped with a generous shaving of Parmigiano‑Reggiano or Pecorino Romano, and accompanied by a simple green salad or crusty bread. In many Italian homes, it is enjoyed as a quick lunch or dinner with a glass of red wine.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is spaghetti al pomodoro associated with in Italian culture?

A

Spaghetti al pomodoro is a go‑to dish for family meals, casual gatherings, and even festive occasions when a light yet satisfying main is desired. It is also common on Sundays when families gather for a relaxed, home‑cooked dinner.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with this blended tomato spaghetti?

A

Pairs beautifully with a classic Caprese salad, garlic‑infused bruschetta, or a side of sautéed greens such as broccoli rabe. For protein, grilled chicken or meatballs are popular accompaniments.

cultural
Q

What makes this blended tomato spaghetti special compared to a traditional chunky marinara?

A

Blending the cooked tomatoes creates an ultra‑smooth, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta more evenly, giving a creamy mouthfeel without adding cream. The technique also intensifies the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making blended tomato spaghetti?

A

Common pitfalls include over‑cooking the garlic (which turns bitter), not cooking the tomatoes until they are fully softened (resulting in a grainy sauce), and forgetting to reserve pasta water, which is essential for achieving the right sauce consistency.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe blend the tomato sauce instead of simmering it whole?

A

Blending creates a smooth, restaurant‑style texture and incorporates the starch from the pasta water directly into the sauce, making it naturally thickened without the need for flour or cream.

technical
Q

Can I make this blended tomato spaghetti ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to two days in advance and kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of pasta water if needed, then toss with freshly cooked spaghetti.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Corey & Alicia specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Corey & Alicia focuses on approachable, family‑friendly recipes that emphasize quick techniques, comfort food twists, and clear step‑by‑step visuals for home cooks of all skill levels.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Corey & Alicia's approach to Italian cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Corey & Alicia often simplify classic Italian dishes by using everyday pantry ingredients and modern shortcuts—like blending fresh tomatoes—while still honoring authentic flavors, making Italian cooking feel less intimidating than more traditional, technique‑heavy channels.

channel

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