Velvety Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe: Simple Yet Divine

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 14 oz (400 g) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for extra richness)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh basil)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Black pepper or chili flakes