Pasta Of Choice Recipe

Boil water and cook pasta

Bring 4 qt of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 2 tbsp kosher salt and 1 tsp olive oil (optional). Add 12 oz dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–12 minutes depending on pasta). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1 to 1 1/2 cups of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sweat aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts and foam subsides. Add 1 cup finely diced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown the garlic.

Build the tomato base

Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to caramelize and deepen flavor. Add 14 oz crushed tomatoes (or purée), 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tsp granulated sugar (optional), 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Finish with cream (optional)

If using a creamier sauce, stir in 1 cup light cream or half-and-half and simmer 2–3 minutes until warmed and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce over low–medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to start and toss vigorously for 1–2 minutes to emulsify the sauce and coat the pasta. If the sauce seems dry, add more reserved water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Add protein/add-ins

If using cooked protein (8 oz cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms), add it now and toss until heated through, about 2–3 minutes.

Finish with cheese and herbs

Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan and 1 cup torn fresh basil leaves until just combined. Add 1 tsp lemon zest if using for brightness. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Divide pasta among plates or bowls. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan and torn basil on top. Serve immediately.