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Cheesy Tomato Pasta

Cheesy Tomato Pasta
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A quick and comforting Cheesy Tomato Pasta recipe ready in under 20 minutes, featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a vibrant tomato sauce and topped with creamy melted cheese. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this dish ideal for busy weeknights or hearty meal prep.

Ingredients

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Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 oz dry pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Pour in crushed tomatoes, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to develop flavors.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time if the sauce is too thick, until you reach a smooth consistency.
  4. Add Cheese and Finish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan over the pasta mixture, stirring gently until melted into a creamy sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

  • Use reserved pasta water to achieve a silky sauce texture.
  • Cook pasta to al dente to maintain firmness and avoid mushiness.
  • Choose freshly shredded cheese for better melting than pre-shredded types.
  • Sauté garlic and onion slowly to unlock their natural sweetness.
  • Add fresh herbs last to retain their vibrant flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy tomato pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, Italian pasta, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/cheesy-tomato-pasta/