There’s something truly comforting about a pasta recipe quick and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet flavorful enough to remind you of cherished family dinners. I often think back to evenings spent in Mama Lou’s cozy kitchen, where the scent of simmering tomato sauce mingled with laughter and stories shared between my sister Ouma and me. It’s these moments that inspire me to create dishes that feel like a warm hug, dishes that bring family and friends together around the table. This pasta recipe embodies that spirit — straightforward, wholesome, and bursting with the kind of love only food can carry.
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Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe quick and easy
What I adore about this pasta recipe quick and easy is its perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It’s designed for those days when you want to cook something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. Growing up, Mama Lou always said, “Good food doesn’t have to be complicated,” and this recipe is a testament to that wisdom. Whether you’re a novice cook or someone who just wants a fuss-free meal, this pasta is your new best friend.
This dish also carries a personal touch — the way Ouma and I would toss pasta after a long day, chatting about everything under the sun, while Mama Lou stirred the sauce with that gentle patience only grandmothers have. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and create your own memories.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe quick and easy
- 12 ounces dry penne or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly torn, for garnish
- Optional substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs; swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g (mostly from tomatoes)
- Sodium: 400mg (can vary depending on added salt and cheese)
Quick and Easy Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe quick and easy. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dry penne or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly torn, for garnish
- Optional substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs; swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté until the garlic is fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it — Mama Lou always reminded me that garlic can go from magic to bitter in seconds.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir, letting the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and deepens the flavors, just like Mama Lou’s slow-simmered sauces that filled the house with warmth.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy and luscious. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This trick is one Ouma and I discovered together when trying to rescue sauces that were too thick — it’s a kitchen lifesaver!
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately and watch the smiles bloom around your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your pasta recipe quick and easy
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté until the garlic is fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it — Mama Lou always reminded me that garlic can go from magic to bitter in seconds.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir, letting the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and deepens the flavors, just like Mama Lou’s slow-simmered sauces that filled the house with warmth.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy and luscious. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This trick is one Ouma and I discovered together when trying to rescue sauces that were too thick — it’s a kitchen lifesaver!
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately and watch the smiles bloom around your table.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe quick and easy
One of the little lessons Mama Lou taught me was to always taste as you go — it’s the secret to truly personalized, delicious food. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning or add a pinch more red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Also, use the best olive oil you can find; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Another tip from my own kitchen adventures with Ouma is to reserve pasta water every single time you cook pasta. That starchy water is pure gold for adjusting sauce textures and helps the sauce cling perfectly to your noodles.
Lastly, don’t rush the garlic step. Garlic gives the sauce its heart and soul, so sauté it slowly and watch it so carefully — just like Mama Lou did — to avoid bitterness and build that warm, inviting aroma. Learn more: Ultimate Pasta Recipe Easy Simple – Delicious & Quick
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta shines beautifully on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that don’t steal the spotlight. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring freshness and balance. One of my favorite memories is sharing this pasta with Ouma on a sunny afternoon, alongside a loaf of crusty bread, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon complements the creamy tomato sauce wonderfully. And if you want to make it a heartier meal, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp are excellent additions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from this pasta recipe quick and easy keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce, warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave. This method helps revive the sauce’s creamy texture without drying out the pasta.
One little trick I learned from Mama Lou is to avoid overcooking when reheating. Warm it just enough to bring back the flavors — nobody wants mushy pasta! And if you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the cream and cheese, then stir them in fresh after thawing and reheating for the best taste and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe quick and easy?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe quick and easy 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 and easy?
The total time to make pasta recipe quick and easy includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe quick and easy ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe quick and easy 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 and easy?
pasta recipe quick and easy pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe quick and easy suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe quick and easy 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 and easy holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its comforting flavors but because it connects me to my roots and the warm, loving kitchen traditions of Mama Lou and the joyful moments shared with Ouma. It’s a recipe that invites you to create your own family memories, full of laughter and simple pleasures.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or gathering loved ones around the table, this dish answers the call for something delicious, unpretentious, and made with love. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it is in mine — a reminder that sometimes, the best meals are those made quick, easy, and from the heart.
