Description
Classic Italian Comforting Pasta is a simple yet rich dish that brings together al dente pasta with a velvety tomato sauce, aromatic garlic, and a touch of cream or cheese for a nostalgic and heartwarming meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and oregano. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in cream (if using) and Parmesan cheese until smooth and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve hot, topped with more Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Skip the cream for a traditional tomato-based version.
- Add sautéed vegetables or Italian sausage for a heartier dish.
- Use fresh tomatoes in summer months for even richer flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg