Description
Cheesy Pasta with Zesty Sauce is a delightful dish that combines creamy, melted cheese with vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and aromatic garlic. This comforting recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a lively gathering with friends. With its easy preparation and rich taste, each bite promises to be a warm hug for your soul.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add canned diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gradually stir in grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined. If desired, add a splash of pasta cooking water for creaminess.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, ensuring every noodle is coated in the zesty sauce.
- Finish by stirring in chopped basil and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with additional Parmesan on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg