Ingredients

To craft this delicious dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or easily accessible at your local store. Remember, cooking is an art, and you can always adjust ingredients based on your taste preferences.

12 oz of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

For those who like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, coconut milk can be a great substitute for heavy cream.

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the process of creating this dish. It’s straightforward and, believe me, quite rewarding.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the dried basil and oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and warm.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it gently in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Author: Jenny
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: International