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Perfect Pasta Recipe Elbows for Delicious Comfort Food

Perfect Pasta Recipe Elbows for Delicious Comfort Food - Featured Image
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Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe elbows. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 12 ounces elbow pasta (about 3 cups dry)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 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 more for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitution tip: If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, those work beautifully here. For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving.

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s right when it smells sweet and fragrant.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring often, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be mindful not to burn it—burnt garlic can turn the whole dish bitter.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If it feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This is a trick Mama Lu taught me—never waste that starchy water; it’s liquid gold for sauce.
  6. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat every elbow. Let it warm together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and give it one last gentle toss. The cheese adds a creamy depth that feels like a secret ingredient from home.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like, and offer extra Parmesan at the table.

Find it online: https://claracooking.com/pasta-recipe-elbows/