Hey y’all! Craving a rich, homemade pasta sauce but short on time? This 15 Minute Tomato Paste pasta Sauce is your new weeknight lifesaver. It’s savory, vibrant, and brings restaurant-style flavor to your table in no time—perfect for a cozy dinner at home, impromptu gatherings, or anytime you want a delicious meal fast. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Super quick – ready in just 15 minutes from pantry to plate.
- Bold, tangy flavor with a velvety, luxurious texture.
- Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients you already have.
- Customizable for vegans, spice-lovers, or cheese fans.
- Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or last-minute guests.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 – 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, plus more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Add the entire can of tomato paste to the pan, stirring constantly for 1 minute to caramelize a bit and deepen the flavor. Gradually pour in 2 cups of water, whisking to create a smooth, silky sauce.
Step 3: Season & Simmer
Stir in dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer over medium-low heat, uncovered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
If using, stir in grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for added creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed. Spoon generously over hot, cooked pasta and finish with fresh basil leaves or extra cheese. Enjoy your speedy, scrumptious meal!
Notes
- Use low-sodium tomato paste if you prefer to control salt levels.
- A splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen the sauce for a silkier texture.
- This sauce is perfect for spaghetti but also works with penne, fusilli, or baked pasta dishes.
Variations
- Spicy Arrabbiata: Add extra red pepper flakes and a pinch of smoked paprika for smoky heat.
- Vegan: Skip the cheese or use vegan Parmesan for a plant-based sauce.
- Hearty Meat: Brown 1/2 pound ground beef or Italian sausage with the onions for a meaty twist.
Required Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons & cup
- Knife & cutting board
Storage Instructions
- Allow sauce to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve over hot pasta with extra Parmesan and a side of garlic bread.
- Pair with a crisp green salad loaded with fresh veggies.
- Use as a quick pizza sauce, or spoon over roasted veggies and rice.
Pro Tips
- Sautéing tomato paste for a minute intensifies the flavor for a deeper, richer sauce.
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender before serving.
- Always taste and adjust your seasoning before serving for perfect results.
FAQ
Can I use tomato sauce instead of tomato paste?
Tomato paste gives this recipe its concentrated flavor and rich texture. Tomato sauce can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less robust.
How can I make this sauce creamier?
Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or a splash of milk at the end for a creamy texture.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, the sauce itself is gluten-free. Just pair it with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the meal safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup pasta cooking water (or regular water)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
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1Heat olive oil over medium heat in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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2Add tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to caramelize slightly.
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3Slowly pour in pasta cooking water, whisking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
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4Stir in dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Add sugar if desired to balance acidity.
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5Simmer the sauce for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
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6Remove from heat, stir in chopped fresh basil, and toss with cooked pasta. Serve immediately.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
110cal
Protein:
2 gg
Fat:
7 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
10 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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