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Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls

A deliciously comforting dish featuring spaghetti served in crispy garlic bread bowls, perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or a cozy night in.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bread Bowls
  • 4 pieces small round sourdough or boule rolls Use whole-wheat boules for a healthier option.
For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 ounces spaghetti Substitute with gluten-free or chickpea pasta for a protein-rich twist.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought; herbed tomato sauce recommended.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Roasted garlic for a mellower flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning Fresh basil can be used as a garnish.
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella Plus 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for topping.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • optional cooked meatballs, sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, red pepper flakes For added flavor and texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Prepare the bread bowls by slicing the tops off the rolls and carefully hollowing out the centers, leaving about a 1/2-inch shell.
  3. Combine softened butter, minced garlic, oregano, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil in a small bowl to make garlic butter.
Baking the Bread Bowls
  1. Brush the inside and rim of each hollowed roll generously with the garlic butter.
  2. Place them cut-side up on the baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Cooking the Pasta
  1. While the bowls toast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water.
  2. Stir in half the mozzarella until it melts into the sauce.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining and Assembling
  1. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until every strand is coated.
  2. Spoon a generous amount of spaghetti into each garlic bread bowl and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  3. Return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden.
Serving
  1. Garnish with torn fresh basil, black pepper, and chili flakes, if desired.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove. Substitute spinach with kale or peas for variation. Store leftovers in separate containers for up to 3 days.