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Cranberry Spaghetti served with tangy cranberry sauce on spaghetti noodles

Cranberry Spaghetti


  • Author: David Tag
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

Cranberry Spaghetti is a delicious sweet-and-savory pasta dish that combines tart cranberries with a flavorful spaghetti sauce. Perfect for weeknights or festive dinners, it’s quick, family-friendly, and unforgettable.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries (or 1 ½ cups cranberry sauce)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar

  • 1 tsp dried basil

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Optional garnish: Fresh herbs or grated cheese


Instructions

  • Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • In a large pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.

  • Add cranberries and cook until they soften and burst (6–8 minutes).

  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, honey, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce until evenly coated.

  • Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or cheese if desired.

Notes

For a quicker version, use canned cranberry sauce and pre-made marinara.

Add cooked turkey bacon or chicken sausage for extra protein.

Make it vegetarian by adding roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: ~375
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 68g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 14g