How to Make Red Sauce Cheese Pasta at Home: Pasta is a popular food all over the world, and when it’s paired with a hearty red sauce and melted cheese, it makes for a cozy and filling dinner. We’ll walk you through a quick and delectable red sauce cheese pasta dish in this post. Let’s get started on How to Make Red Sauce Cheese Pasta at Home. We’ll go over everything, from the necessary supplies to the detailed cooking method, to make sure you can make this traditional meal in your own home.
Ingredients for How to Make Red Sauce Cheese Pasta at Home
Here’s a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need to make red sauce cheese pasta:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne or fusilli) | 250 grams |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Bell pepper | 1 medium, chopped |
| Tomato puree | 400 grams |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar) | 150 grams |
| Fresh basil (for garnish) | A few leaves |
Step-by-Step Guide How to Make Red Sauce Cheese Pasta at Home
Begin by boiling the pasta.
Heat up a big pot of salted water to a boil before beginning to make your red sauce cheese pasta. Once boiling, add 250 grams of your preferred pasta (fusilli or penne are good options). Pasta should be cooked as directed on the package until it is al dente. Usually, this takes eight to ten minutes. To keep the spaghetti from sticking together, stir it every now and then.
After the pasta is done, save it and drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta since the starch makes the sauce stick to it better. You may start making the red sauce while the pasta cooks.
Step 2: Get the Red Sauce Ready
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one medium-sized chopped onion and cook, stirring, for three to four minutes, or until transparent. Next, add one medium-sized diced bell pepper and three minced garlic cloves. After two to three more minutes of sautéing, the bell pepper should be soft.
It’s time to fill the pan with 400 grams of tomato puree. Mix well with the veggies that have been sautéed. Next, add a teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste while seasoning the sauce. The acidity of the tomatoes is lessened by the sugar. Simmer the sauce on low heat for around ten minutes, stirring from time to time to keep it from adhering to the pan’s bottom.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce and Pasta
It’s time to mix the sauce with the pasta after it has slightly thickened and the flavors have merged. Toss in the cooked pasta and red sauce in the skillet. Gently toss the pasta to ensure that the sauce coats it evenly. You may thin out the sauce by adding a little amount of the pasta boiling water if it appears too thick.
Once combined, toss in 150 grams of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella). Mix until the cheese is all mixed in and melted. Feel free to add extra cheese if you like your pasta to be cheesier!
Step 4: Arrange and Accent
It’s time to serve your pasta with red sauce and cheese! Pasta should be spooned onto dishes or into bowls. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch. This gives the meal a blast of fresh taste in addition to making it look better.
For a full dinner, pair this spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Savor your handmade cheese pasta with red sauce, certain to wow your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The red sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. - Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese?
Yes, you can use plant-based cheese alternatives if you want a vegan option. - What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for additional protein. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for some heat. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. - What herbs can I use instead of oregano and basil?
You can use Italian seasoning, thyme, or parsley for a different flavor profile. - Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato puree?
Yes, you can blend fresh tomatoes to make your own puree, but you might need to adjust the cooking time. - How do I make it creamier?
Add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese when combining the pasta with the sauce. - Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, this pasta dish is usually a hit with kids due to its cheesy flavor and fun shape.
Final Thoughts
Making red sauce cheese pasta at home is a satisfying experience that doesn’t call for a high level of culinary proficiency. All you need are some basic supplies and easy instructions to make a tasty supper that your family will enjoy. Try varying the pasta varieties, adding your preferred veggies, or modifying the seasonings to your personal preference. This meal is ideal for every occasion since it is adaptable and can be made in a variety of ways. Savor each mouthful of your handmade red sauce cheese pasta as you go on your culinary adventure!