Spaghetti Donuts: The Ultimate Pasta Snack

Have you ever wished you could enjoy your favorite pasta dish on the go? Enter Spaghetti Donuts – the innovative, Instagram-worthy food trend that transforms traditional Italian spaghetti into convenient, handheld bites.

These savory donuts are perfect for meal prep, parties, lunchboxes, or anytime you're craving pasta but need something portable. Originally popularized at food festivals in Brooklyn, these unique pasta confections have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a delicious fusion of comfort food in an unexpected package.

In this article, we'll walk you through how to make these show-stopping spaghetti donuts at home with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Whether you're a pasta enthusiast looking to try something new or searching for the perfect party appetizer to impress your guests, these spaghetti donuts deliver both in flavor and presentation.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Portable pasta: Enjoy your favorite Italian flavors without the mess
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep and lunchboxes
• Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite pasta mix-ins
• Kid-approved: Fun shape makes these a hit with children
• Party perfect: Impressive appetizers that can be served warm or at room temperature

Ingredients

• For 6 spaghetti donuts:
• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (125g) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) marinara sauce, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Equipment Needed

1. 6-cavity donut pan (or muffin tin with aluminum foil centers)
2. Large pot for boiling pasta
3. Large mixing bowl
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Tongs or pasta server

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions.
4. Drain thoroughly and let cool slightly (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Mix the Binding Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, ricotta, and marinara sauce.
2. Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Form

1. Add the slightly cooled spaghetti to the egg mixture.
2. Using tongs, toss gently until all strands are evenly coated.
3. Fold in the mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

1. Generously grease your donut pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Carefully arrange the spaghetti mixture into each donut cavity, pressing down gently to compact.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
4. Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully removing.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce for dipping.
2. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Variations and Add-ins

Take your spaghetti donuts to the next level with these creative variations:

• Meat Lover's: Add 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef
• Veggie: Mix in 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach
• Carbonara Style: Include 1/4 cup diced pancetta or bacon and swap the marinara for a light cream sauce
• Pesto: Replace marinara with 2 tablespoons of basil pesto
• Pizza Style: Top with mini pepperoni slices before baking

Storage and Reheating

• These spaghetti donuts are perfect for make-ahead meals:
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until heated through, or microwave for 30-45 seconds

Nutritional Information

Per spaghetti donut (approximate):

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these without a donut pan?
• Yes! Use a muffin tin and place a small ball of aluminum foil in the center of each cavity to create the donut hole.
• Can I use different pasta shapes?
• While traditional spaghetti works best for the authentic donut look, you can experiment with other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine.
• Are these gluten-free?
• They can be! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free spaghetti in the recipe.
• Can I make these ahead for a party?
• Absolutely! Prepare them up to a day in advance and reheat in the oven before serving.

Spaghetti Donuts are the perfect fusion of convenience and classic Italian flavors. Whether you're serving them as a unique appetizer at your next gathering, packing them for lunch, or enjoying them as a fun family dinner, these pasta donuts are sure to impress both in presentation and taste. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, cheesy pasta interior that captures everything you love about traditional spaghetti in a handheld form.

Give this recipe a try and discover why spaghetti donuts have become such a sensation in the culinary world. They're not just a novelty – they're a genuinely delicious way to enjoy pasta with a creative twist!