Toddler’s Tasty Tomato Cheese Pasta

In a saucepan, whisk together tomato paste and minced garlic with 5 cups of water (Note: I use plain tomato paste because it has no added “junk” like many tomato sauces do).

Heat on high until boiling. Add pasta, and return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes (or until pasta is soft), stirring frequently. The liquid should reduce down significantly. If it reduces too much, just add more water.

While pasta is cooking, grate the cheddar cheese.

When the pasta has finished cooking, remove from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted, then add the milk, butter and basil. Stir gently until combined.

Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays then pop into a freezer bag to be used as needed. Add a little water to defrost on the stovetop or in the microwave.