If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting pasta recipe that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Tomato Pasta is just what you need. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe combines a velvety tomato-based sauce with a hint of garlic, Italian herbs, and a splash of cream. Best of all, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300 grams pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for added depth)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity, optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves or parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• Red pepper flakes (for a bit of spice)
• Spinach (for extra greens, add at the end)
• Mushrooms or bell peppers (sautéed for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite).
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the pasta cooking water. Set both aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Base

1. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, if using, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will help develop a richer tomato flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir well until the sauce becomes a beautiful, creamy pink color.
4. Add in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, adding richness and depth to the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat every piece in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

• Pasta Choice: Use any pasta shape you like! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well because they hold onto the sauce. Spaghetti or fettuccine also make a great option.
• Tomato Variety: If you prefer a slightly chunkier sauce, use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes. For a smoother sauce, you can blend the sauce before adding the cream.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to customize! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein. Fresh vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers also make a tasty addition.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Variations

1. Vegan Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Replace the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Swap out the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute.

2. Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free pasta, such as chickpea or lentil-based pasta. Just be cautious with cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked.

3. Cheesy Baked Creamy Tomato Pasta

• For an extra indulgent dish, transfer the pasta to a baking dish after combining it with the sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Storing Leftovers

This creamy tomato pasta is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can cause the cream to separate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe without cream?

A: Absolutely! For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream with milk or half-and-half. Another option is to use Greek yogurt, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

A: Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down for longer to achieve the same thickness. Use about 5-6 ripe tomatoes, chop them, and cook until they soften and release their juices.

Q: How do I keep the sauce from being too acidic?

A: Adding a small amount of sugar helps balance the acidity. You can also add a pinch of baking soda to the sauce while it simmers; this neutralizes the acidity without changing the flavor.

Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge, and when ready to serve, warm it up and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Tomato Pasta strikes the perfect balance between a tangy tomato sauce and a rich, velvety creaminess. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s budget-friendly and simple to prepare, yet tastes like a dish straight out of an Italian restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let the comforting flavors take you on a delicious journey!

Enjoy this easy, delicious, and creamy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.