Ingredients:

12 oz spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce

4 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Cook the spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Prepare the sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add tomato sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well, breaking up the cream cheese into smaller pieces. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

Season the sauce: Add dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.

Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4