There’s a special kind of magic that happens in the kitchen when you can create something comforting and delicious with just a handful of ingredients. This pasta recipe little ingredients style is close to my heart because it reminds me of the simple meals Mama Lou would prepare on busy days, using what she had on hand and turning it into a feast. It’s those moments with her, and later with my sister Ouma, gathered around the table laughing and sharing stories over a warm plate of pasta, that taught me the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Today, I want to share a pasta recipe little ingredients that feels like a warm hug from the past, easy enough for any day but special enough to bring your family together.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe little ingredients

This pasta recipe little ingredients offers more than just ease and quick preparation; it’s a celebration of flavors that come alive with minimal fuss. Growing up, Mama Lou didn’t have a pantry full of exotic spices or dozens of sauces, but she had an uncanny ability to coax out deep, rich tastes from the simplest elements. This recipe is a tribute to her resourcefulness and warmth.
What I love most is how it allows the pasta itself to shine, supported by a few well-chosen ingredients that enhance rather than overpower. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can adjust it to whatever you have in your fridge or pantry.
And from personal experience, I’ve found this dish brings my sister Ouma running to the kitchen every time. It’s become our go-to quick fix when we crave something nourishing and familiar, wrapped in the kind of flavor that only simple, heartfelt cooking can deliver.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe little ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite long pasta
- 1/4 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon for the pasta water plus seasoning)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Substitutions and tips: If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast makes a lovely cheesy topping. You can swap spaghetti for gluten-free pasta or any other shape you prefer. For an herbal twist, Mama Lou sometimes added a sprig of rosemary to the olive oil while warming it, which gave a subtle aroma that lingers beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 18g (mostly from olive oil and cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg (mainly from added salt and cheese)
These numbers will vary slightly depending on the brand of pasta and cheese you use, but overall, this dish offers a balanced combination of energy and nutrients that can fit nicely into a wholesome meal plan. I’ve always admired how Mama Lou’s simple meals managed to be both satisfying and nourishing, a balance I try to maintain in every recipe I share. Learn more: Whip Up Delicious Pasta at Home with This Simple Recipe
Print
Simple Pasta Recipe with Little Ingredients for Big Flavor
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe little ingredients. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
This pasta recipe little ingredients offers more than just ease and quick preparation; it’s a celebration of flavors that come alive with minimal fuss. Growing up, Mama Lou didn’t have a pantry full of exotic spices or dozens of sauces, but she had an uncanny ability to coax out deep, rich tastes from the simplest elements. This recipe is a tribute to her resourcefulness and warmth.
What I love most is how it allows the pasta itself to shine, supported by a few well-chosen ingredients that enhance rather than overpower. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can adjust it to whatever you have in your fridge or pantry.
And from personal experience, I’ve found this dish brings my sister Ouma running to the kitchen every time. It’s become our go-to quick fix when we crave something nourishing and familiar, wrapped in the kind of flavor that only simple, heartfelt cooking can deliver.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Mama Lou always said, “Don’t overcook—the pasta should have a little bite to hold the sauce.”
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook gently, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant but not browned—about 3-4 minutes. This step infuses the oil with flavor and is where the magic starts.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly.
- Add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce clings to the pasta, creating a silky texture.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
One thing I learned from Ouma is to keep tasting along the way. It’s that personal connection to the food that makes it feel like home on a plate. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning or add another pinch of cheese if you like.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your pasta recipe little ingredients
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Mama Lou always said, “Don’t overcook—the pasta should have a little bite to hold the sauce.”
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook gently, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant but not browned—about 3-4 minutes. This step infuses the oil with flavor and is where the magic starts.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly.
- Add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce clings to the pasta, creating a silky texture.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
One thing I learned from Ouma is to keep tasting along the way. It’s that personal connection to the food that makes it feel like home on a plate. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning or add another pinch of cheese if you like.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe little ingredients
There are a few secrets I picked up from Mama Lou’s kitchen that I swear by every time I make this pasta recipe little ingredients style.
- Use good quality olive oil: It’s the backbone of this dish and brings so much flavor. Mama Lou always insisted on using the best she could find, even if it meant saving up for it.
- Don’t rush the garlic: Cooking it slowly over medium-low heat lets the oil absorb all its aroma without burning it, which would turn bitter.
- Reserve pasta water: This simple trick helps create a creamy sauce without cream. I remember Ouma’s eyes lighting up the first time she noticed how the pasta water transformed the dish.
- Pasta choice matters: While spaghetti works beautifully, try bucatini or linguine for a slightly different texture that still holds the sauce well.
- Serve immediately: This pasta shines best fresh, just like Mama Lou served it to us. If you wait too long, the sauce can dry out or the pasta can clump together.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta recipe little ingredients is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its subtle, comforting flavors.
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional warmth and color to the plate.
- A crusty loaf of bread, perfect for mopping up the leftover garlic oil.
- For a heartier meal, a side of sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken fits perfectly.
I fondly recall those evenings when Mama Lou would bring out a bowl of olives and some marinated artichokes to share alongside this pasta, turning a simple meal into a small feast. Those are the memories I hope to inspire whenever I cook or share this recipe.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though rare in my house!), storing and reheating this pasta is straightforward.
- Place cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry the pasta out or make the garlic flavor too sharp.
- This pasta doesn’t freeze well, as the texture of the noodles changes and becomes mushy.
Ouma once tried to save leftovers for a week-long trip but ended up eating fresh pasta the entire time instead—sometimes, fresh is just unbeatable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe little ingredients?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe little ingredients include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make pasta recipe little ingredients?
The total time to make pasta recipe little ingredients includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe little ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe little ingredients can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with pasta recipe little ingredients?
pasta recipe little ingredients pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe little ingredients suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe little ingredients may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
This pasta recipe little ingredients holds a special place in my heart because it embodies the spirit of family, tradition, and love that Mama Lou passed down to me. It proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques to make something truly satisfying. Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones that bring us closest together.
Cooking this pasta always connects me to those warm afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen and to the laughter shared with Ouma over a quick meal. It’s a reminder that food is more than sustenance—it’s memory, comfort, and a language of love. I hope as you prepare this recipe, you feel that same warmth and create your own beautiful stories around the table.