Easy Spaghetti Dinner (2024)

If you're looking for a quick, delicious, 30-minute satisfying dinner, this easy spaghetti recipe with bell peppers, goat cheese, and basil is the perfect recipe. Whether you're cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Be sure to also try my Healthy Spaghetti Recipe and low fat (red sauce) Tuna Casserole dish next for more easy family dinners.

This easy garlic spaghetti pasta with bell peppers, goat cheese, and basil is a delicious and easy spaghetti recipe that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.

It came about one evening when we needed dinner on the table in 30-minutes or less and I went with ingredients I already had on-hand in my pantry and refrigerator. I didn't have tomato sauce or fresh tomatoes stored in the refrigerator so I made it with garlic, olive oil, and goat cheese for the flavor.

It makes such a quick and healthy family dinner! You can also make it with the addition of my Easy Marinara Sauce too! Here is how to make this easy spaghetti recipe without pasta sauce on my Instagram in this reel.

Tips to make the best garlic spaghetti pasta recipe

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, bell peppers, and basil make a huge difference in flavor. They bring out the best in this simple recipe.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: For the perfect al dente texture, keep a close eye on your pasta while it's cooking. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when tossed with the vegetables.
• Save the Pasta Water: This starchy water is great for adding moisture to the dish without making it watery. It also helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.
• Goat Cheese Options: If you prefer a milder taste, use a softer goat cheese. For a stronger flavor, choose a crumbly aged variety.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients you'll need

See recipe card below for full ingredient list and details.

• spaghetti noodles - gluten-free for gluten-free foodies here!
• cloves garlic, minced
• green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• medium onion, thinly sliced
• olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• goat cheese, crumbled
• Fresh basil leaves, or dry basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles, reserving a cup of the pasta water, and set the noodles aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

Add the sliced green and red bell peppers and the onion to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. The bell peppers should be soft but still have a bit of a bite to them, and the onions should be golden and sweet.

4. Combine the Pasta and Vegetables:

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine well. If the pasta seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce that coats the spaghetti. Optional to top the pasta with goat cheese or Parmesan cheese and fresh or dry basil leaves.

Recipe FAQs

How to store leftover spaghetti

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out.

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