Description
A warm and comforting pasta dish featuring creamy sauce and rich flavors of garlic and tomatoes, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or a full-fat dairy alternative
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or a similar hard cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the tomato base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add oregano and chili flakes, and let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Finish with cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until the sauce is creamy and cohesive. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine and serve: Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding butter if using, and cook together for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs flavor. Garnish with torn basil and extra cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a bright, balanced sauce. Don’t overcook the garlic; add it after the onion softens. Reserve pasta water — the starchy liquid thins and helps the sauce cling to pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian