This delicious pasta with an amazing sauce is a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will love. Packed with rich flavors from a homemade sauce made with garlic, tomatoes, and cream, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Not only does it taste incredible, but it’s also relatively easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With the added nutritional benefits of tomatoes and olive oil, this pasta provides a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a balanced dish that offers about 400-500 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredient adjustments. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal or something to impress your guests, this pasta with an amazing sauce is sure to satisfy.
Servings and Preparation Time:
- Servings: 4-5
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your preferred type)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet and stir. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Once the tomatoes have softened, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this point.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Cook the pasta in the sauce for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
- Once everything is well combined, transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a little more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Tips and Tricks:
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more cream or a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired texture. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Use Fresh Tomatoes for Extra Flavor: If you’re looking for a fresher taste, consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. Be sure to peel and seed them before chopping for a smoother sauce.
- Add Protein or Vegetables: To make this dish more filling, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. This will add texture and variety to the dish, making it even more versatile.
- Make It Spicy: For those who like a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will enhance the flavor profile and add a fun spicy kick to the dish.
Final Thoughts:
This pasta with an amazing sauce is a great option for anyone looking to create a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. The combination of fresh ingredients, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish a winner every time. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or preparing it for a gathering with friends and family, it’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to modify based on your personal preferences, so feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your taste.
As a final note, feel free to add or remove ingredients to suit your personal taste preferences.
