Are you craving a rich, flavorful sauce that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Ragu Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is your answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated addition to your next pasta night. It's bursting with the deliciousness of simmered tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and the sharp bite of Parmesan cheese – a truly satisfying and easy recipe perfect for homemade cooking. This recipe is adaptable to your taste, making it a versatile addition to your healthy meal repertoire.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This delicious dish requires simple, readily available ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Culinary Journey
Let's create some magic in the kitchen! Follow these simple steps for a perfect Ragu Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
-
Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be softened but not browned.
-
Simmer the Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
-
Stir in the Parmesan: Once the sauce has simmered, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious Ragu Garlic Parmesan Sauce immediately over your favorite pasta, alongside grilled chicken or vegetables, or as a topping for pizza. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Sauce
- For a smoother sauce: Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce after simmering for a completely smooth consistency.
- Add some meat: Brown some ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs before adding the garlic for a heartier sauce. This turns it into a fantastic quick dinner idea.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh herbs are best: If you have fresh oregano and basil, use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped, instead of the dried herbs.
Variations: Tailor it to Your Taste
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some fun variations to explore:
- Mushroom Ragu: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms during the simmering process for an earthy twist.
- Creamy Ragu: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for an extra creamy texture.
- Spicy Ragu: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the garlic for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1 cup and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Ragu Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. It's quick, easy, and adaptable to your preferences, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!