Print

Quick & Easy Fusilli Pasta with Tomato Sauce Recipe

Quick & Easy Fusilli Pasta with Tomato Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A quick and delicious Fusilli Pasta with Tomato Sauce, made with garlic, onions, and herbs. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s the perfect meal for busy days. Top with Parmesan and basil for extra flavor!

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g fusilli pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional for extra sweetness)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated (for natural sweetness)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 800g (2 cans) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed or blended for smoother sauce
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning or 1 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (to balance acidity of tomatoes)
  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn for garnish
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (for depth)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese (for creamier sauce)
  • Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken, ground beef, or sausage (for added protein)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Fusilli Pasta

Bring a big pot of water that has been salted to a boil. Cook the fusilli pasta as suggested on the box, which is usually 9 to 11 minutes for al dente pasta. Before rinsing, set aside approximately 1/2 cup of the pasta’s cooking water. After draining, put the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Heat the olive oil in a big pan over medium heat while the pasta boils. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic, and cook for approximately five minutes, or until the onion is soft and clear. Add the basil, oregano, smashed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. To allow the flavors to mix, stir everything together and boil the sauce for 15 to 20 minutes. You may mix the sauce right in the pan with an immersion blender if you want a better consistency.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained fusilli pasta to the sauce. Coat the pasta with the tomato sauce by giving it a good stir. If the sauce looks too thick, thin it up a little at a time with the pasta water you set aside until you have the right consistency.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition