Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, yet surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Creamy Fra Diavolo Sauce recipe is your answer. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and creamy, transforming simple pasta into a restaurant-quality meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea that’s surprisingly healthy and packed with deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the base of incredible flavor for our sauce.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add the red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes!
Step 3: Creamy Perfection
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more red pepper flakes for extra heat!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining – this will help create a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamy Fra Diavolo:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder sauce, use less; for a fiery kick, add more!
- Fresh is best: If you have fresh oregano and basil, use them instead of the dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta al dente (slightly firm to the bite) for the best texture.
- Blend for extra smoothness: For a super-smooth sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce after simmering.
Variations:
- Add protein: Shrimp, chicken, or Italian sausage would be delicious additions to this dish. Add them to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Veggie boost: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Creamy alternatives: Use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the pasta and additions used, but a standard serving should contain roughly:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Creamy Fra Diavolo Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its versatility makes it easy to customize to your preferences, creating a delicious and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy!