Easy and Delicious Pasta Recipe to Make at Home

There’s something about coming home that makes the heart—and the stomach—feel full. Growing up in that white farmhouse nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, pasta was never just a quick fix. It was a warm invitation to gather ‘round the table, a simple way to say, “You’re loved.” This pasta recipe home brings that spirit right to your kitchen, blending the comfort of old traditions with the ease of modern cooking. It’s the kind of meal that reminds me of Mama Lu’s skillet cornbread or her Sunday pot roast—simple ingredients, big love, and stories shared over every bite.

Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe home

When I left the mountains for Portland, I missed that feeling of home—the aroma of something bubbling on the stove, the clink of dishes, the laughter filling the room. This pasta recipe home is my way of holding onto those memories. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but special enough to bring family together. With a rich tomato sauce that simmers low and slow, and tender pasta that carries every bit of flavor, it’s a dish that feels like a hug from the inside out.

What makes it stand apart? It’s the kind of recipe you don’t have to stress over measuring, a little like the way Mama Lu taught me—trust your instincts, taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to add a pinch more salt or a splash of good olive oil. It’s food that’s forgiving, flexible, and full of heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe home

• 12 ounces dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand or with a spoon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or a handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Substitution tips: If you want a heartier sauce, add cooked Italian sausage or sautéed mushrooms. For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. If canned tomatoes aren’t your thing, fresh plum tomatoes can be blanched and crushed.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 9g (mostly from olive oil and cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g (natural from tomatoes)
• Sodium: 420mg (varies depending on added salt and cheese)

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Steps to Create Your pasta recipe home

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. This step fills the kitchen with a scent that takes me right back to Mama Lu’s porch, where stories mingled with the smell of slow-cooked meals.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Pour in the crushed canned tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken slightly and develop a rich, deep flavor. If it gets too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning—Mama Lu always said seasoning is the soul of a dish. Don’t be shy with salt or pepper. If the sauce tastes too acidic, a tiny pinch of sugar can balance it out.
7. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand or piece. If the sauce feels dry, add more pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a silky consistency.
8. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for a creamy finish.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe home

One of the most important lessons Mama Lu passed down was to trust your senses. When making pasta, don’t just follow the clock—taste the pasta to see if it’s tender but still firm to the bite. That’s al dente, and it’s what gives this dish its perfect texture.

Use the pasta water—it’s magical. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the noodles better, making every bite flavorful. Learn more: Easy Simple Pasta Recipe That Will Become Your Go-To Dinner

Don’t rush the sauce. Letting it simmer slowly lets the flavors deepen, much like the slow Sunday afternoons of my childhood, when time seemed to stretch just enough for everything to come together perfectly.

If you want to add a smoky depth, a splash of good balsamic vinegar or a spoonful of roasted red peppers stirred into the sauce can take it to the next level.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pasta recipe home feels just right alongside a crisp green salad—think fresh arugula tossed with lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Or, if you want to lean into the comfort-food vibe, a side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread made from a crusty loaf brings that same sense of warmth and togetherness I remember from family dinners.

For a heartier meal, serve with pan-seared chicken thighs or a simple grilled steak. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine—something bright and fruity to complement the tomato sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this pasta recipe home are just as good the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you want to freeze it, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently. Keep in mind, fresh pasta holds up best for reheating, but dried pasta like in this recipe fares quite well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe home?

The main ingredients for pasta recipe home include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make pasta recipe home?

The total time to make pasta recipe home includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make pasta recipe home ahead of time?

Yes, pasta recipe home can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with pasta recipe home?

pasta recipe home pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is pasta recipe home suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe home may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This pasta recipe home isn’t just about food—it’s about a feeling. It’s about the way a simple meal can bring people together, remind us of where we come from, and create new memories along the way. Like Mama Lu’s skillet cornbread or her blackberry jam, it’s humble, unpretentious, and full of soul.

“Recipes weren’t written,” Mama Lu used to say. “They were remembered. Shared by heart, with a pinch of salt and a whole lot of soul.”

So, when you make this pasta recipe home, don’t just follow the steps—make it your own. Add that pinch of salt, stir in a little extra love, and invite someone to sit with you. Because that’s what food was for in that old farmhouse, and that’s what it should be for you, too.