Tomato Cream Pasta with Grilled Cheese Crumbs
User Reviews
5
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
3 to 4
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Tomato Cream Pasta with Grilled Cheese Crumbs
Description
Tomato Cream Pasta with Grilled Cheese Crumbs blends a base of garlic-infused olive oil, dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes with smooth tomato puree. Mascarpone enriches the sauce, giving it a pinkish creamy consistency that balances acidity. Whole wheat fusilli is stirred in just before serving, providing a robust bite that complements the creamy sauce.
The grilled cheese crumbs are created by toasting torn bread pieces in olive oil and butter until golden and crunchy, then tossing with finely grated mozzarella to add a melty salty note. These crumbs add texture and a savory finish to the pasta, enhancing its appeal.
Serve this pasta freshly mixed to enjoy the contrast between the creamy sauce and crisp cheese crumbs. Parmesan cheese shavings and fresh basil leaves garnish the dish, contributing freshness and complexity.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic minced, cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/4 teaspoon basil dried
- pinch red pepper flakes
- 20 ounces tomato puree
- 6 ounces mascarpone cheese
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 pound whole wheat fusilli pasta cooked
- Parmesan Cheese shaved parmesan and fresh basil leaves, for serving
- basil shaved parmesan and fresh basil leaves, for serving
grilled cheese crumbs
- 2 pieces bread torn into tiny pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 ounces mozzarella cheese finely grated
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add the olive oil. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Pour in the tomato puree and stir. Cook until the sauce is warm and the garlic infuses it, about 10 minutes. Once warm, stir in the mascarpone cheese. It will turn the sauce pink and become creamy and delicious!
- Taste the sauce and season if desired. You can add salt, pepper or even a touch of brown sugar if it’s still acidic.
- Stir in the cooked pasta right before serving. Top with the grilled cheese crumbs, shaved parmesan and fresh basil.
grilled cheese crumbs
- Heat a saucepan or skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once sizzling, add in the pieces of bread and stir. Cook and toss, stirring often, until the crumbs toast and become golden. You want them crunchy!
- Turn off the heat and let the pan sit for 1 minute. Add the grated cheese and toss for a minute or two, until it’s dispersed through the crumbs. It will melt and some pieces will get crunchy. Delicious!
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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