Dinner

Tomato Sauce Pasta Recipe

Byluca Carter October 2, 2026October 2, 2026

Introduction

This classic tomato sauce pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. With a rich, homemade tomato sauce and tender pasta, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.

A white square plate holds a serving of penne pasta coated in a chunky red tomato sauce mixed with small pieces of vegetables or meat. The pasta is arranged in one layer with the sauce heaped in the center, topped with fresh green basil leaves scattered on top and around the pasta. The background shows a white marbled texture with blurred whole tomatoes, red chili peppers, and garlic bulbs adding color but staying out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

250 g pasta (spaghetti or penne)
2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely chopped)

400 g canned crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until fragrant and golden.

Step 4: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Step 5: Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.

Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a lighter, fresher taste.
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones if available, but add them towards the end of cooking to preserve flavor.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce has thickened too much.