Description
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.
Ingredients
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Pasta of your choice (300g / 10 oz – penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
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Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
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Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
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Chopped Tomatoes (1 x 400g / 14 oz can)
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Tomato Purée (1 tbsp)
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Cream Cheese or Soft Cheese (100g / ½ cup – like Philadelphia)
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Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
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Fresh Basil or Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)
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Optional: Grated Parmesan for topping
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss well to coat. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan, if using. Serve hot.