The Bear Spaghetti Recipe

There is something irresistibly comforting and vibrant about The Bear Spaghetti that has quickly become a personal favorite to share with friends and family. This simple yet deeply flavorful pasta dish masterfully balances fresh basil, rich San Marzano tomatoes, and a subtle spicy kick, all coated lovingly in a silky, buttery sauce. Every bite brings warmth and brightness, making The Bear Spaghetti a perfect meal to brighten up any day with its soulful Italian charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of The Bear Spaghetti lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the bright acidity of tomatoes, the aromatic freshness of basil, or the creamy touch of butter, making the dish harmonious in taste, texture, and color.

• 220g spaghetti: The foundation of the dish; cook it just right for that perfect al dente bite.
• 80ml olive oil: Adds richness and helps carry the flavors of garlic and basil beautifully.
• 1 (400g) can chopped San Marzano tomatoes: Opt for these high-quality Italian tomatoes for their natural sweetness and low acidity.
• ½ large yellow onion: When caramelized, it deepens the sauce’s flavor with a subtle sweetness and golden hue.
• ½ packet fresh basil leaves (or 12g): Fresh basil gives the dish a fragrant and herbal lift that’s unmistakably Italian.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes: Delivers a gentle heat that rounds out the tomato’s brightness.
• 3 cloves garlic: Smashed to release their aroma, garlic is the soulful heart of the oil infusion.
• 60g butter: Creates a luscious, velvety texture and balances acidity with its creamy richness.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing every flavor in the dish.
• Parmesan cheese, to garnish (optional): Adds savory depth and a delightful finishing touch when sprinkled on top.

How to Make The Bear Spaghetti

Step 1: Infuse the Olive Oil

Start by gently heating the olive oil in a small saucepan. Add peeled and smashed garlic cloves along with red pepper flakes and fresh basil leaves. Warm it over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer, letting the flavors infuse deeply for 1 to 2 minutes. This fragrant oil will be the backbone of the sauce’s bright yet spicy notes.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

While the infusion is happening, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—firm but tender. Before draining, be sure to save half a cup of the starchy pasta water, as it will be invaluable for coaxing the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onion

Slice the onion in half through the root and peel away its skin. Heat the butter and a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Place the onion cut-side down and cook for about 8 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown and fills the kitchen with its rich, fragrant aroma. This step really adds depth and subtle sweetness to the sauce.

Step 4: Create the Tomato Sauce

Add the canned San Marzano tomatoes to the pot with the caramelized onion, using a wooden spoon to gently break them apart. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, season with salt, and cover the pot to simmer on low heat for 8 minutes. This slow simmer lets the flavors meld and the sauce thicken just right.

Step 5: Combine Infused Oil and Finish the Sauce

Pour the vibrant infused basil oil into the tomato sauce, stirring well to blend all the flavors. Adjust salt as needed. Then add the reserved pasta water and let the sauce simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes, allowing it to become silky and smooth. Remove the onion halves and blend the sauce with an immersion blender until perfectly smooth—a luscious base for The Bear Spaghetti.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Finally, toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce and stir until every strand is evenly coated with that gorgeous, velvety sauce. It’s these last moments that bring The Bear Spaghetti to life—ready to be enjoyed with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves if you like.

How to Serve The Bear Spaghetti

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty finish that perfectly complements the tender noodles and tomato sauce. Fresh basil leaves not only look beautiful but provide a refreshing herbal scent that entices the senses. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add richness and sheen.

Side Dishes

The Bear Spaghetti is so flavorful on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, peppery arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of that luscious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple grilled chicken breast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve The Bear Spaghetti in rustic bowls for a cozy, homemade vibe or plate it elegantly twirled into nests on large white plates for special occasions. Offering lemon wedges on the side invites guests to add a bright twist if they desire. You can also place small basil sprigs on top as edible garnishes that bring a beautiful pop of color and aroma.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of The Bear Spaghetti, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from drying out, it’s best to mix a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water into the noodles before refrigerating.

Freezing

The Bear Spaghetti sauce freezes beautifully. Store the sauce separately from the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat. Avoid freezing cooked spaghetti as it tends to become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Toss in freshly cooked spaghetti or reheat leftover pasta with a little splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture and tenderness. This method helps maintain the bright flavors and smooth texture that make The Bear Spaghetti so special.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for The Bear Spaghetti?

Fresh tomatoes can work, but canned San Marzano tomatoes offer a consistent sweetness and balanced acidity that make the sauce particularly vibrant. If using fresh, choose ripe plum tomatoes and peel them for the best texture.

Is The Bear Spaghetti very spicy?

The spice level is mild and comforting, thanks to just half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. It adds a gentle warmth that enhances the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I make The Bear Spaghetti vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the butter for a plant-based margarine or extra olive oil, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative to keep it deliciously vegan.

Why is the onion cooked whole instead of chopped?

Cooking the onion halves cut-side down allows it to caramelize evenly and infuse the sauce with sweet, mellow undertones without breaking down completely, giving the sauce a smooth flavor after blending.

What makes The Bear Spaghetti different from other tomato sauces?

Its unique infusion of basil and garlic in olive oil, combined with buttery caramelized onion and the smooth texture from blending, creates a complex yet elegant sauce that stands out from typical tomato pasta sauces.

Final Thoughts

There’s a sincere joy in cooking and sharing The Bear Spaghetti, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or something special for loved ones. It’s a dish that beautifully celebrates simple ingredients elevated through thoughtful technique, and I can’t wait for you to experience its lovely flavors and comfort. Give The Bear Spaghetti a try—you might just find your new go-to pasta recipe for all occasions.

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