Pasta with creamy tomato sauce, Parmesan, and basil. Comforting Italian flavors, ready in just 30 minutes.
# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 ounces dried penne or fettuccine
→ Sauce
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
07 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
11 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 large handful fresh basil leaves, sliced
→ For Serving
14 - Additional grated Parmesan cheese
15 - Extra basil leaves
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
02 - While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
03 - Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, and chili flakes if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and most of the sliced basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
05 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired sauce consistency is reached.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil leaves.
