Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 3: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 4: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water, or more as needed, to help create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.
- Step 5: Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese has melted into the sauce. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Any leftover pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; for best texture, you can add an extra splash of olive oil or a spoonful of water before storing to keep it from drying out.
- Revive leftover pasta gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and bring back that fresh, al dente feel.
- For a complete meal, pair your pasta with a vibrant green salad and some warm, crusty bread perfect for dipping, and consider a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic finish.
- The reserved pasta cooking water is your secret weapon; its starch helps thicken the sauce and ensures it beautifully coats every strand of pasta, creating that coveted silky texture!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups cooked pasta with sauce
- Calories: 510
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 10g