There are moments in life when you crave comfort food that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. For me, those are the times when I lean into an easy pasta recipe quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet so rich with flavor it feels like a special occasion. Growing up, Mama Lou’s kitchen was always filled with the aroma of simmering tomato sauce and fresh herbs, and she taught me that great meals don’t have to be complicated. This recipe reminds me of those golden afternoons spent with my sister Ouma, twirling spaghetti and sharing stories over bowls of pasta. It’s a dish born from love, tradition, and the simple joy of gathering around the table.
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Why You’ll Love This easy pasta recipe quick
This easy pasta recipe quick is a lifesaver for anyone who wants a wholesome, satisfying dinner without fuss. It blends the warmth of homemade sauce with the comforting texture of perfectly cooked pasta, all in under 30 minutes. What I adore about it is how it channels the spirit of my Mama Lou’s cooking—simple, flavorful, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
When Ouma and I were growing up, busy school weeks meant Mama Lou’s quick pasta was our go-to. It was her way of saying, “You’re loved,” even when time was tight. This dish is perfect for those moments when you need a quick pick-me-up, or when unexpected guests arrive and you want to serve something that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This easy pasta recipe quick
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta (gluten-free pasta works well too)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian alternative)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Substitutions: If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes blended smooth or a high-quality tomato sauce. For dairy-free options, swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast or omit it entirely.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 9g (mostly from olive oil and cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g (natural sugar from tomatoes)
- Sodium: 400mg (can be reduced by limiting salt)
Easy Pasta Recipe Quick and Delicious for Busy Weeknights
Learn how to make delicious easy pasta recipe quick. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta (gluten-free pasta works well too)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian alternative)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Substitutions: If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes blended smooth or a high-quality tomato sauce. For dairy-free options, swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast or omit it entirely.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not browned. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s gentle hands coaxing flavor out of garlic without burning it.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet along with dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add the teaspoon of sugar to balance it out—Mama Lou swore by this trick.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning is where you make the dish your own.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. This step always makes me think of the laughter Ouma and I shared while trying to get every strand covered in sauce, not a single bite left dry.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if you have them on hand. Mama Lou always said, “A little green goes a long way to brighten the plate and heart.”
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your easy pasta recipe quick
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not browned. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s gentle hands coaxing flavor out of garlic without burning it.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet along with dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add the teaspoon of sugar to balance it out—Mama Lou swore by this trick.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning is where you make the dish your own.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. This step always makes me think of the laughter Ouma and I shared while trying to get every strand covered in sauce, not a single bite left dry.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if you have them on hand. Mama Lou always said, “A little green goes a long way to brighten the plate and heart.”
Tips for Making the Best easy pasta recipe quick
- Use good quality olive oil—it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Slice garlic thinly and cook it gently; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water—it’s magic for adjusting sauce consistency and helps it cling to noodles.
- Don’t rush simmering the sauce; even a few extra minutes deepen the flavor beautifully.
- Feel free to add sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
- For an extra touch of comfort, add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta when tossing the pasta.
- Remember, cooking is about love and patience—just like Mama Lou taught me, savor the process.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This easy pasta recipe quick is incredibly versatile. When I serve it at home, Ouma and I love pairing it with a simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce—just like Mama Lou’s crusty bread that was always a centerpiece at our family table. Learn more: Ultimate Pasta Recipe Easy Simple – Delicious & Quick
For a heartier meal, grilled chicken or pan-seared shrimp complement the pasta beautifully. On cooler days, a bowl of minestrone or a light vegetable soup makes the perfect starter. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon rounds out the meal effortlessly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this easy pasta recipe quick are just as comforting the next day. To store, place pasta and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the pasta from drying out.
One of my favorite memories with Ouma was reheating Mama Lou’s pasta together—sometimes the second day tasted even better because the flavors had melded overnight. If you want to freeze it, do so before mixing pasta with the sauce, as pasta can become mushy. Freeze the sauce separately for up to 3 months, then combine when ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for easy pasta recipe quick?
The main ingredients for easy pasta recipe quick 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 easy pasta recipe quick?
The total time to make easy pasta recipe quick includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make easy pasta recipe quick ahead of time?
Yes, easy pasta recipe quick 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 easy pasta recipe quick?
easy pasta recipe quick pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is easy pasta recipe quick suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, easy pasta recipe quick may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
This easy pasta recipe quick is more than just a meal—it’s a link to my roots, a reminder of the love that filled Mama Lou’s kitchen, and the joyful simplicity of sharing food with family. Cooking it brings me back to those afternoons with Ouma, where every bite was a conversation and every ingredient a memory. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking to rekindle your love for home-cooked meals, this pasta is a warm embrace on a plate, ready in a flash.
So next time you’re pressed for time but craving something soulful, remember this recipe. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it carries a little piece of my family’s heart—straight to your table.
