Kid's Pasta Recipe

Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 tsp kosher salt once boiling.

Add 2 cups penne pasta to the boiling water, stir to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered for 9–11 minutes until al dente (cook time may vary by brand).

Reserve about 2 tablespoons of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Keep warm.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.

Add 1 tsp minced garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown it.

Add 3 oz crushed tomatoes and 1 tsp tomato paste; stir to combine.

Season with 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken slightly.

If sauce becomes too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water to reach a kid-friendly, smooth consistency.

Toss the drained penne into the sauce in the skillet, stirring to coat evenly for 30–60 seconds. Add 1 tsp butter (optional) for extra silkiness.

Serve immediately with 1 tbsp grated Parmesan and torn basil leaves if using.

In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter over low–medium heat.

Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 30 seconds to form a roux; do not let it brown.

Gradually whisk in 3 fl oz (about 90 ml) milk until smooth. Continue to cook, whisking, until the sauce begins to thicken, about 2–3 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan until melted. Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper and a pinch (1/8 tsp) nutmeg if using.

If sauce is too thick, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons reserved pasta water to reach a creamy, kid-friendly consistency.

Toss the drained penne into the white sauce in the saucepan, stirring to coat evenly for 30–60 seconds. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve immediately topped with 1 tbsp grated Parmesan and torn basil leaves if desired.

Plate the half-order portion (this recipe yields a child's half portion). Optionally sprinkle additional Parmesan.

Allow to cool to a safe temperature for a child (test before serving).