Imagine a plate of pasta so irresistible, so perfectly crafted, that it transports you straight to the heart of Italy with just one bite. This "My Big Fat Thick Pasta" recipe is not just another pasta dish - it's a culinary adventure that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality deliciousness right in your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz thick pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the thick pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Aim for al dente texture where pasta is cooked but still firm to the bite.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour marinara sauce into the saucepan with garlic. Stir and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together. Reduce heat to low.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
- Return pasta to the pot and pour the warm marinara sauce over it. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously - it should taste like the sea. This is your first chance to add flavor to the pasta.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help create a silkier sauce and help it cling better to the pasta.
- Cook pasta just until al dente. The pasta will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce, so removing it slightly before fully cooked prevents mushiness.
- Use fresh garlic if possible - it makes a significant difference in the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Warm your serving bowls before plating to keep the pasta hot and ensure a more enjoyable dining experience.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the Parmesan cheese briefly under the broiler before sprinkling it over the pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
