Pasta with Sautéed Garlic and Tomato Sauce
A simple, one-pot pasta dish using pantry staples for a satisfying meal under 20 minutes. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 25 minutes blends spaghetti, olive oil, minced garlic into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant — do not let garlic brown.
- Step 3: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, and salt to taste. Toss for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp fresh basil and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, tossing until cheese melts and coats the pasta.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pasta with Sautéed Garlic and Tomato Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Pasta with Sautéed Garlic and Tomato Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Pasta with Sautéed Garlic and Tomato Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Pasta with Sautéed Garlic and Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Pasta with Sautéed Garlic and Tomato Sauce?
Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
This was so simple and delicious! My family loved the fresh garlic and tomato flavor.
- ★★★★★
Perfection in a bowl! The garlic was just right, not burnt, and the tomatoes were sweet.
- ★★★★☆
Loved it, but the sauce was a bit bland for my taste. Next time I'll add more herbs.
