Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta Recipe

This Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta is your go-to solution for a quick, comforting, and flavorful weeknight meal. Made with just a few pantry staples, it combines pasta with a light, creamy tomato-based sauce and fresh herbs for a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a lifesaver on busy days.

What is Mary Berry’s 15-Minute Pasta?

Mary Berry’s 15-minute pasta is a quick-cooking creamy tomato pasta dish, typically made with soft cheese, chopped tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s designed to be both fast and satisfying, offering full flavor without needing hours at the stove. This dish is perfect for busy cooks who still want homemade comfort food.

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• Jamie Oliver Chocolate Tart
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• Mary Berry Pasta Sauce

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Ready in Under 15 Minutes – Perfect for last-minute dinners
• Uses Simple Ingredients – No fancy prep or shopping needed
• Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved – Creamy, mild, and easy to enjoy
• Customizable – Add proteins or veggies to suit your taste
• Budget-Friendly – Pantry staples come together beautifully

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta

• Pasta of your choice (300g / 10 oz – penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Chopped Tomatoes (1 x 400g / 14 oz can)
• Tomato Purée (1 tbsp)
• Cream Cheese or Soft Cheese (100g / ½ cup – like Philadelphia)
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh Basil or Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan for topping

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan for boiling pasta
• A frying pan or a large skillet for the sauce
• Wooden spoon
• Colander

Instructions to Make Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta

Step 1: Boil the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the packet instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato purée, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stir in the cream cheese

Once the sauce is heated through, stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and creamy. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine and serve

Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss well to coat. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan, if using. Serve hot.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta

• Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette – Classic, crunchy pairing
• Green Salad with Vinaigrette – Adds freshness and contrast
• Steamed Broccoli or Peas – Quick side to boost nutrition
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – To add protein
• A Glass of White Wine – Optional for a dinner-worthy finish
• Chili Flakes or Black Pepper – If you like a little kick

Expert Tips for the Best Quick Pasta

• Use Cream Cheese at Room Temp – Helps it melt smoothly
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic – It can turn bitter
• Add a Splash of Pasta Water – Helps loosen and bind the sauce
• Stir Continuously – Prevents cheese from clumping
• Serve Immediately – Best enjoyed fresh while creamy

Easy Variations of Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta

• Add Cooked Bacon or Ham – For a smoky, savory twist
• Toss in Fresh Spinach – Stir in just before serving
• Use Mascarpone Instead of Cream Cheese – For extra richness
• Spicy Version – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes
• Vegan-Friendly – Use dairy-free cheese and adjust seasoning

Best Practices to Store Leftovers

• Cool and Refrigerate Promptly – Store in an airtight container
• Consume Within 2 Days – Cream-based sauces are best fresh
• Reheat Gently on Stove or Microwave – Add a splash of milk or water
• Do Not Freeze – Sauce may split after thawing

Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~380
• Carbohydrates: ~52g
• Protein: ~11g
• Fat: ~14g
• Fiber: ~4g

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with mascarpone, ricotta, or even double cream for a different texture and flavor. Just adjust the quantity based on creaminess.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti will work well. Choose a shape that holds onto the creamy sauce.

How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

The base recipe is vegetarian. To make it vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese and ensure your pasta contains no egg. You can also stir in plant-based protein or vegetables.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Absolutely. This pasta pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or cooked lentils. Just stir them in at the end before serving.

Final Words

This Mary Berry 15-Minute Pasta is the definition of simple comfort food done right. With creamy richness, bright tomato flavor, and minimal fuss, it’s perfect for busy cooks who want something hearty and homemade without the long prep.

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