Whenever I think about a pasta recipe mozzarella, my mind drifts back to the cozy kitchen of Mama Lou, where the air was always thick with the smell of fresh basil, garlic, and bubbling tomato sauce. I remember sitting on a wooden stool beside her, watching as she tore fresh mozzarella into soft, pillowy pieces, letting it melt perfectly over hot pasta. That simple act, steeped in love and tradition, is what inspired me to perfect a recipe that feels like a warm embrace in every bite. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the stories, the family moments, and the joy that food brings when shared with those you love.
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Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe mozzarella
This pasta recipe mozzarella is a celebration of comfort and simplicity, wrapped up in the creamy, gooey goodness of fresh mozzarella. It’s the kind of dish that Mama Lou would make when she wanted to lift everyone’s spirits after a long day. The combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella is unbeatable, and it’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for family gatherings.
What makes this recipe stand out is how versatile it is. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll find joy in the process and the flavors. My sister Ouma and I often made this together during our college days, turning the kitchen into a lively space filled with laughter and the aroma of simmering sauce. This pasta is not just food; it’s a memory maker, a hug from the past, and a promise of good times ahead on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe mozzarella
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully)
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes (canned San Marzano tomatoes are my go-to)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, a handful, roughly torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
- Substitution tip: If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, use a high-quality low-moisture mozzarella for a firmer texture
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 520mg
Creamy Mozzarella Pasta Recipe You Need to Try Tonight
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe mozzarella. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully)
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes (canned San Marzano tomatoes are my go-to)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, a handful, roughly torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
- Substitution tip: If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, use a high-quality low-moisture mozzarella for a firmer texture
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the torn basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Turn off the heat and fold in the torn fresh mozzarella pieces, letting them melt slightly from the residual heat. This is where the magic happens — the cheese should be soft, stringy, and irresistible.
- Serve immediately, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few more fresh basil leaves for color and aroma.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your pasta recipe mozzarella
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the torn basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Turn off the heat and fold in the torn fresh mozzarella pieces, letting them melt slightly from the residual heat. This is where the magic happens — the cheese should be soft, stringy, and irresistible.
- Serve immediately, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few more fresh basil leaves for color and aroma.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe mozzarella
My Mama Lou always told me that the secret to a soulful pasta is patience and quality ingredients. Here are some of her timeless tips that I still follow:
- Use fresh mozzarella — it melts differently and brings that authentic creaminess you want in every bite.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente is key because it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Simmer your sauce low and slow. This brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and deepens the flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water; it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Add the mozzarella at the very end, off the heat, to keep it from turning rubbery.
- Feel free to invite family and friends to tear the mozzarella together — it’s a small moment of connection I cherish every time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta recipe mozzarella is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides that complement its rich flavors. When I make this, I like to keep the meal balanced and light, just like Mama Lou’s Sunday dinners. Learn more: Indulge in the Creamy Kendall Jenner Vodka Pasta Recipe Everyone Is Talking About
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for mopping up every last bit of sauce
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition
- For drinks, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon works wonders
- And if you want to go all out, a simple tiramisu or panna cotta for dessert keeps the Italian vibe alive
Storage and Reheating Tips
I’ve learned from many family gatherings that this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers do happen — especially when Ouma’s around because she’s always ready for seconds! Here’s how to keep the magic alive if you need to store and reheat:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to help loosen the sauce.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta and toughening the mozzarella.
- If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between to distribute heat evenly.
- Fresh mozzarella may lose some of its oozy texture after reheating, but adding a little extra cheese fresh before serving can revive that creamy feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe mozzarella?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe mozzarella 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 mozzarella?
The total time to make pasta recipe mozzarella includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe mozzarella ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe mozzarella 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 mozzarella?
pasta recipe mozzarella pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe mozzarella suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe mozzarella 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 mozzarella holds a special place in my heart—not just as a dish, but as a vessel of memories, love, and family tradition. It reminds me of the quiet afternoons spent in Mama Lou’s kitchen, the laughter with Ouma as we discovered our own cooking styles, and the simple joy of sharing a meal that feels like home. I hope when you make this recipe, it brings you the same warmth and comfort it has brought me for years.
“Cooking is not just about feeding the body, but nourishing the soul—and with dishes like this, every bite tells a story.”
So grab your pot, your freshest mozzarella, and let this pasta recipe mozzarella be part of your family’s story too. Buon appetito!
