Description
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe kids love. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
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.
- 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.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano and basil, and season with salt and pepper.
- 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.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
- 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
