There’s something incredibly comforting about a pasta recipe quick enough to pull together on a busy weeknight but still rich with the warmth and love of homemade cooking. Growing up, Mama Lou always had a way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals, especially when time was tight and the whole family was hungry. I remember rushing into her cozy kitchen after school, the scent of garlic and tomatoes filling the air, and how she’d smile as she tossed together a sauce while sharing stories of her own childhood. This pasta recipe quick is one of those treasures—easy, satisfying, and infused with that same spirit of family and tradition that I hope to pass on in my own kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe quick
This pasta recipe quick is a lifeline on hectic days, but it never sacrifices flavor or heart. What makes it special isn’t just how fast you can have it on the table—it’s that feeling of coming home to a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Mama Lou’s secret was always in layering flavors: sautéing onions and garlic slowly to coax out their sweetness, using fresh herbs from the garden when she could, and adding a splash of something tangy or creamy at the end to finish the sauce perfectly.
Like many of you, my sister Ouma and I grew up eating pasta in many forms—sometimes simple, sometimes celebratory—but always a symbol of coming together. This quick pasta recipe is a nod to those moments. It’s flexible, forgiving, and perfect for anyone who wants to honor tradition without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great canvas for adding whatever you have on hand, just like Mama Lou did when she improvised with love.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe quick
- 12 ounces of your favorite dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work beautifully)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano for sweetness
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy twist
Substitutions: If you’re dairy-free, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative. For a gluten-free version, any gluten-free pasta will work just as well. If canned tomatoes aren’t available, finely chopped fresh tomatoes can be used but may require a longer simmer.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving (serves 4)
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 12g (mostly from olive oil and cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g (natural sugars from tomatoes and onions)
- Sodium: 480mg (varies with broth and cheese)
5 Quick Pasta Recipes That Will Save Your Dinner Time
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe quick. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of your favorite dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work beautifully)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano for sweetness
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy twist
Substitutions: If you’re dairy-free, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative. For a gluten-free version, any gluten-free pasta will work just as well. If canned tomatoes aren’t available, finely chopped fresh tomatoes can be used but may require a longer simmer.
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 about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté gently for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. This slow cooking brings out that natural sweetness Mama Lou always insisted was key.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir frequently to prevent burning—burned garlic can turn the whole dish bitter.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add the chicken or vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach a nice consistency. I remember Mama Lou always said, “Sauce should hug the pasta, not drown it.” This is your chance to achieve that perfect balance.
- Once the sauce is bubbling gently, stir in the fresh basil. If you’d like a creamy version, now’s the time to add the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it warm through for 2 minutes, just until it’s silky and smooth.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time if needed to help coat every strand evenly. This step is where the magic happens—Mama Lou always said cooking pasta and sauce together was like a dance.
- Finish the dish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the top and giving everything one last gentle toss. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if you like, and prepare to be transported back to those warm kitchens filled with laughter and love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your 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 about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté gently for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. This slow cooking brings out that natural sweetness Mama Lou always insisted was key.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir frequently to prevent burning—burned garlic can turn the whole dish bitter.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add the chicken or vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach a nice consistency. I remember Mama Lou always said, “Sauce should hug the pasta, not drown it.” This is your chance to achieve that perfect balance.
- Once the sauce is bubbling gently, stir in the fresh basil. If you’d like a creamy version, now’s the time to add the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it warm through for 2 minutes, just until it’s silky and smooth.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time if needed to help coat every strand evenly. This step is where the magic happens—Mama Lou always said cooking pasta and sauce together was like a dance.
- Finish the dish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the top and giving everything one last gentle toss. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if you like, and prepare to be transported back to those warm kitchens filled with laughter and love.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe quick
From my years in the kitchen, and countless evenings spent cooking alongside Mama Lou and Ouma, I’ve learned a few small secrets that elevate this pasta recipe quick from good to unforgettable. Learn more: Wholesome Pasta Recipes Your Baby Will Love
- Don’t rush the onions: That slow sauté is what builds the foundation of flavor. Patience here pays off.
- Reserve pasta water: It’s a little starchy magic that helps your sauce cling to the noodles.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh garlic, good olive oil, and ripe tomatoes make all the difference.
- Customize with herbs: If you have rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of sage, feel free to experiment. Mama Lou was never shy about improvising.
- Don’t skip the cheese: Parmesan adds umami and richness that makes the dish sing.
- Heat control: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to meld flavors without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta recipe quick stands beautifully on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that complement the hearty sauce and tender noodles. One of my favorite memories is sitting down with Ouma after a long day, sharing this pasta alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette—something fresh and bright to cut through the richness.
- A light arugula or mixed greens salad with shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every last bit of sauce
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a Mediterranean flair
- A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, if you’re celebrating or unwinding
And of course, it pairs wonderfully with a simple dessert—think fresh berries with a dollop of mascarpone or a slice of Mama Lou’s famous lemon cake. Food, after all, is about the full experience, the stories shared, and the memories made around the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Sometimes life gets busy, and having leftovers is a blessing. This pasta recipe quick keeps well, and I always encourage making a little extra to enjoy the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it so it tastes just as good:
- Cool the pasta completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened.
- Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the pasta unevenly. If you must use it, cover the dish and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
- If freezing, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe quick?
The main ingredients for 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 pasta recipe quick?
The total time to make pasta recipe quick includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe quick ahead of time?
Yes, 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 pasta recipe quick?
pasta recipe quick pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe quick suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, 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 pasta recipe quick is more than just a meal—it’s a bridge to the past, a way of honoring the love and wisdom Mama Lou passed down to me and Ouma. It reminds me that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming to be meaningful. It’s about the moments we create around the table, the stories we tell, and the traditions we nurture with every bite.
“Cooking is an act of love, and every quick recipe holds the potential to become a cherished family memory.”
So when you’re pressed for time but craving something homemade and heartfelt, I hope you’ll turn to this recipe. Let it fill your kitchen with warmth, your table with laughter, and your heart with the comfort of home.
