Name: Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 10 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 500 grams tomatoes, pureed; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon red chili flakes; 2½ cups dried pasta (250 grams); 6 cups water; 2 teaspoons salt (for pasta water); ¼ cup cream (for creamy version); ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (for creamy version); 1 teaspoon butter (for baked version); 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for baked version); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (for baked version); 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (for baked version)

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Red sauce pasta is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish made with a rich tomato-based sauce. The combination of garlic, herbs, and olive oil creates a perfectly balanced base, while options for creamy or cheesy baked variations make it versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A classic Italian-style pasta dish with bold flavors.
Easy to customize: enjoy as simple red sauce pasta, make it creamy, or turn it into a cheesy baked delight.
Uses basic pantry ingredients and fresh tomatoes.
Family-friendly and great for both vegetarians and pasta lovers.
Can be made ahead and reheated, perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the red sauce:
3 tablespoons olive oil
10 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons tomato paste
500 grams tomatoes
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon red chili flakes

For cooking pasta:
2½ cups dried pasta (250 grams)
2 teaspoons salt
6 cups water

For creamy red sauce pasta:
¼ cup cream
¼ cup Parmesan cheese

For cheesy baked red sauce pasta:
1 teaspoon butter
2 tablespoons cream cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Directions

Make the tomato puree: Chop tomatoes and blend into a smooth puree without water. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
Add tomato puree, mix well, cover, and cook on medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes. Stir, season with salt and sugar, and cook covered on low heat for 5 more minutes.
Add oregano, basil, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Mix well and let cool. Store if preparing ahead.
Cook the pasta: Bring water to a boil, add salt, and cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Toss pasta with red sauce and a splash of pasta water until evenly coated.

For creamy red sauce pasta:

Use 2 cups of prepared red sauce. Heat in a pan, stir in cream and Parmesan, then toss in cooked pasta. Serve hot.

For cheesy baked red sauce pasta:

Use 2 cups of prepared red sauce. Heat butter in a pan, add sauce, then stir in cream cheese and mozzarella until melted. Toss pasta and transfer to a baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan, bake at 200°C for 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Make it spicy by increasing red chili flakes or adding fresh chili.
Use penne, fusilli, or spaghetti depending on your pasta preference.
Replace cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a protein boost.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or in the microwave until heated through.
Freeze red sauce (without pasta) in jars or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before use.
Baked pasta can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes work well if fresh ones are not available.

Why add tomato paste to the sauce?

Tomato paste deepens the flavor and gives the sauce a richer taste.

Can I skip the cream for a lighter version?

Yes, the pasta will still taste delicious without cream.

Which pasta shape works best?

Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well.

How do I make the sauce less acidic?

Add a pinch more sugar to balance the acidity of tomatoes.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce keeps in the fridge for up to a week and freezes well.

What cheese works best for baking?

Mozzarella for melting and Parmesan for flavor are the best choices.

How do I make it vegan?

Skip the cheese and cream, or use plant-based alternatives.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it scales easily—just adjust seasoning to taste.

Why reserve pasta water?

It helps emulsify the sauce, making it cling better to the pasta.

Conclusion

Red sauce pasta is a classic dish that brings together the richness of tomatoes, the warmth of garlic, and the aroma of herbs. With the option to enjoy it plain, creamy, or baked with cheese, it’s a recipe that fits every mood and occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a gathering, this pasta will always be a crowd-pleaser.