Cheater's Pasta
Quick, simple, and packed with flavor, "Cheater's Pasta" is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero for busy home cooks. This easy pasta recipe combines al dente spaghetti with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce spiced with chili flakes for just the right kick. With pantry staples like canned diced tomatoes, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, you can whip this up in just 20 minutes from start to finish. The addition of fresh basil leaves adds a burst of brightness, while a splash of reserved pasta water ensures the sauce clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. Perfect for two servings, this comforting yet sophisticated dish is ideal for a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Whether you're craving a low-effort dinner or showcasing your "lazy genius" cooking skills, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver mouthwatering results.
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Ingredients
- 250 grams spaghetti or any pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 units garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 400 grams canned diced tomatoes
- 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 units fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.5 cup pasta water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3
Add the chili flakes to the skillet and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Step 4
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5
Season the sauce with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 7
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss it again to combine.
Step 8
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Step 9
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (868.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1045.3 |
| Total Fat 57.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 17.6g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 6.1g | |
| Cholesterol 58mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3736.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 95.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 12.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 13.8g | |
| Protein 38.8g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 715.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.8mg | 0% |
| Potassium 985.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories