Description
This Classic Italian Comforting Pasta is everything you crave in a hearty, home-cooked meal. Featuring a rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, garlic, herbs, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is simple but full of flavor. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti work well)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or use fresh)
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
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Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
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Add garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
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Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until fully coated. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
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Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh basil on top.
Notes
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Add browned ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce for a meaty version.
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To make it creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta at the end.
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Great for leftovers — the flavor gets even better the next day!