Pasta with tomato sauce is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world. This classic Italian-inspired dish is simple, affordable, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for family and friends, pasta with homemade tomato sauce always delivers rich taste and warmth. In this recipe, you will learn how to make a delicious tomato pasta sauce from scratch using basic pantry ingredients and easy cooking techniques.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
• 400 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the tomato sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 800 g canned crushed tomatoes (or fresh blended tomatoes)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil leaves)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup pasta cooking water
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt generously to the water, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cooking pasta properly is essential for achieving the best texture. Salted water enhances flavor, and cooking until al dente ensures the pasta remains slightly firm when combined with the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Garlic should not brown too much, as it can become bitter.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. This step deepens the flavor of the sauce and gives it a richer color.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and mix well. Add sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and chili flakes if desired. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Simmering allows the tomato sauce to thicken and develop a balanced flavor. The acidity of the tomatoes softens while the herbs infuse the sauce with aroma.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps create a smooth, silky consistency that coats the pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce pan. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated. Cook for another 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the tomato sauce flavor.
This step is important for creating authentic Italian-style pasta, where the sauce and pasta become fully integrated rather than served separately.
Step 5: Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and presentation.
Serve immediately while hot.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Tomato Pasta
Using high-quality tomatoes makes a significant difference in flavor. Canned San Marzano tomatoes or ripe fresh tomatoes are ideal for making homemade tomato pasta sauce.
Olive oil adds richness and helps carry the flavors of garlic, onion, and herbs throughout the sauce. Always cook the sauce slowly to achieve a deeper taste.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it before adding the pasta. For a more rustic texture, leave it as is.
Adding pasta water is a professional technique used in Italian cooking. The starch helps bind the sauce to the pasta and improves consistency.
Variations
You can easily customize this pasta recipe. Add cooked ground beef for a hearty meat sauce, or include vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious option. Grilled chicken or shrimp also pairs wonderfully with tomato pasta.
For a spicy tomato pasta, increase the chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers. For a creamy tomato pasta, stir in a small amount of cream at the end of cooking.
Whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta can be used as alternatives while maintaining the same cooking method.
Storage
Tomato pasta sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.
Freshly cooked pasta with tomato sauce always tastes best, but leftovers remain delicious and convenient for quick meals.
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This pasta with tomato sauce recipe is simple, authentic, and full of rich tomato flavor. With basic ingredients and easy steps, you can prepare a satisfying homemade pasta dish anytime. Perfectly cooked pasta combined with a slow-simmered tomato sauce creates a classic meal that never goes out of style.
