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Pasta Perfection: Kid-Approved Recipes They'll Beg For - Featured Image

Pasta Perfection: Kid-Approved Recipes They’ll Beg For


  • Author: Jenny
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe kids love. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.


Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life. Feel free to make substitutions as needed to suit your pantry and preferences.

  • 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (like penne or fusilli)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Substitution Tip: Swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred, and feel free to add some cooked protein like chicken or sausage for extra heartiness.


Instructions

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano and basil, and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This is the perfect time to taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
  7. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.

Personal Tip: If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce can elevate the dish without making it too spicy for kids.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: pasta recipe kids love, recipe, cooking, food