Laurie’s Cheesy Tomato Pasta: A Comfort Food Classic
Laurie’s Cheesy Tomato Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. This recipe, passed down through generations, is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. The combination of rich tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey, melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. This dish is incredibly versatile; it can be a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding vegetables, different types of cheese, or even a touch of spice. So, gather your ingredients and let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this delightful masterpiece!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
* **Simplicity:** It requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible to everyone.
* **Flavor:** The combination of tomato sauce, herbs, and cheese creates a well-balanced and delicious flavor profile.
* **Adaptability:** You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients and flavors.
* **Comfort:** It’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies your cravings and warms your soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
* **Pasta:** 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, farfalle, or spaghetti all work well).
* **Tomato Sauce:** 2 (28 ounce) cans of crushed tomatoes or tomato puree. Using high-quality tomatoes makes a significant difference in the final flavor.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. This forms the base of the sauce and adds sweetness and depth.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic infuses the sauce with its pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons. Used for sautéing the onion and garlic.
* **Dried Herbs:** 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. These herbs add a classic Italian flavor to the sauce. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
* **Sugar:** 1 teaspoon. A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
* **Cheese:** 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan). The cheese is the star of the show, creating a gooey and cheesy topping.
* **Optional Add-ins:**
* Vegetables: Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or broccoli.
* Meat: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or cooked chicken.
* Spices: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get cooking!
**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite).
* Drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water – this can be used to adjust the sauce consistency later.
**Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce**
* In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato puree.
* Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
**Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce**
* Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the tomato sauce.
* Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Make sure every strand is covered in the delicious tomato goodness.
**Step 4: Add the Cheese and Bake (Optional)**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. A 9×13 inch dish works well.
* Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese blend) evenly over the top.
* Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden brown.
**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
* Remove the pasta from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
* Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
* Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make this recipe your own:
* **Use fresh herbs:** Substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs for a brighter and more vibrant flavor. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor.
* **Add vegetables:** Sauté your favorite vegetables along with the onion and garlic for a heartier and more nutritious meal. Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and broccoli all work well.
* **Add meat:** Brown ground beef or Italian sausage and add it to the sauce for a meaty twist. Cooked chicken or shrimp can also be added.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combination. Provolone, Parmesan, ricotta, and cheddar are all great options.
* **Make it creamy:** Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a creamier texture.
* **Add a splash of wine:** Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine after cooking the onion and garlic for a deeper and more complex flavor.
* **Make it ahead:** Prepare the pasta and sauce separately ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them and bake as directed.
* **Slow Cooker Option:** You can also make this in a slow cooker! Brown any meat you’re using. Add all ingredients (except the cheese and pasta) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cook the pasta separately, then combine with the sauce and cheese before serving.
* **Instant Pot Option:** Brown any meat you’re using in the Instant Pot. Add the onion and garlic and sauté. Add the tomatoes, herbs, spices and water. Break the pasta in half and stir into the sauce. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release. Stir in the cheese until melted.
Serving Suggestions
Laurie’s Cheesy Tomato Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:
* **As a main course:** Serve it as a hearty and satisfying main course for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
* **As a side dish:** Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
* **With a salad:** Pair it with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad for a complete and balanced meal.
* **With garlic bread:** Serve it with warm garlic bread for dipping into the delicious tomato sauce.
Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
* **Microwave:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Oven:** Reheat the pasta in a baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Stovetop:** Reheat the pasta in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 400-500 per serving (depending on ingredients used)
* Protein: 20-25 grams per serving
* Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams per serving
* Fat: 15-20 grams per serving
Conclusion
Laurie’s Cheesy Tomato Pasta is a timeless classic that is sure to please everyone. Its simple ingredients, easy instructions, and customizable nature make it a perfect dish for any occasion. So, go ahead and try this recipe today and experience the warmth and comfort of this beloved family favorite!
Enjoy this delicious and comforting pasta dish! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy.