Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
- Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, vegan version.
- Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to restore sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
