This creamy tomato pasta is the perfect quick and satisfying meal for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and comes together in less than 30 minutes! Get ready for a new family favorite.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 15 seconds.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage would be delicious additions to this pasta. Add them to the skillet after the garlic has been sautéed.
- Veggie Boost: Sauté some chopped onions, bell peppers, or spinach along with the garlic for extra vegetables.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Herb Variations: Try using fresh oregano or thyme instead of dried. Add them towards the end of the cooking time for the best flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Feel free to add a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, along with the Parmesan.
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