Description
A quick and delicious creamy tomato garlic pasta that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh basil to taste for garnish
- Parmesan cheese to taste for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh basil for a brighter flavor.
- Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Consider using a lighter option by replacing heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg