Are you ready to take your pasta game to the next level? Imagine twirling perfectly cooked noodles drenched in a rich, tangy marinara sauce, then topped with a creamy Alfredo that melts in your mouth. This delightful "Pasta with Marinara and Alfredo" recipe combines the best of both worlds, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that serves four, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover the secret to pasta perfection!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, warm marinara sauce in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- In a separate small saucepan, gently heat Alfredo sauce, keeping it warm but not boiling. Stir frequently to maintain smooth consistency.
- Drain cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water to help sauce adhere if needed.
- Return drained pasta to the pot and add marinara sauce, gently tossing to coat evenly.
- Transfer pasta with marinara to serving plates, then drizzle Alfredo sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped.
- Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the blend of marinara and Alfredo sauces.
Tips
- Salt the Water: Don’t skip the salt in your boiling water! It enhances the flavor of the pasta, making a big difference in the overall taste of your dish.
- Watch the Timing: For perfectly al dente pasta, follow the package instructions carefully. Remember, it will continue to cook a bit after draining.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water. It’s a great way to adjust the consistency of your sauces if they’re too thick.
- Heat Sauces Separately: Gently warming both the marinara and Alfredo sauces keeps them smooth and prevents burning. A little patience goes a long way!
- Layer Flavors: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or onions to your marinara sauce.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil not only adds color but also a fresh aroma that elevates the dish. Don’t be shy with the Parmesan cheese either!
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it immediately to savor the delightful blend of flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
