Creamy Harissa Pasta

4.97 from 28 votes

Creamy Harissa Pasta

Creamy harissa pasta is so easy to make, but so flavorful! The addition of harissa to the tomato sauce adds a depth, flavor, and spice that takes it to the next level.

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Main Course, Pasta

Cuisine: American

Keyword: harissa, pasta

Servings:

Calories: 616kcal

Author: Aimee

Ingredients

8 ounces dried pasta like farfalle, penne, or spaghetti
½ tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic
15 ounces tomato sauce
1 ½ tablespoons harissa paste
¼ cup heavy cream
parmesan or mozzarella cheese optional
fresh basil leaves optional
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat water in a large pot and cook pasta according to the package directions.
While pasta is cooking, peel and mince the two cloves of garlic.
About 5 minutes before pasta is done, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, making sure not to burn garlic.
Add the tomato sauce and harissa paste. Stir to combine. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, turning down the heat slightly if needed.
Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until sauce is hot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
When pasta is done, drain the pasta and then add to the sauce, stirring to coat pasta.
Top with cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Cooking tips:

You can increase the spice level by adding more harissa if desired. I used spicy harissa and used 1.5 tablespoons. If using medium-spice harissa paste use 2 tablespoons, and if using mild, use 2.5 tablespoons.
You can easily add cooked chicken or shrimp to this dish.
I used farfalle pasta (that looks like bowties), but penne, ziti, fettuccine, and even spaghetti will all work well in this dish.
This recipe can serve 2-4, depending on hunger levels and if you serve it with a salad.

Nutrition