Irresistible Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe to Savor Today

Nothing warms the soul quite like creamy tomato pasta. Imagine a plate of luscious, velvety pasta drenched in a rich tomato sauce that dances on your taste buds, inviting you to take another forkful. With every twirl, you catch the aroma of garlic mingling with basil, promising comfort and satisfaction. This dish can transform a simple weeknight dinner into an Italian escape, making it perfect for those moments when you need a little extra love on your plate.

Now, let’s be honest: creamy tomato pasta isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Picture this: you’re hosting a cozy dinner party, and as the guests arrive, the delightful scent wafts through your kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. Before you know it, they’re raving about how this dish is “better than any restaurant” they’ve ever visited. You’ll be the culinary hero of the evening, basking in compliments while secretly knowing how easy it is to whip up!

Sharing this creamy tomato pasta with friends made me realize how much joy good food can bring; we ended up laughing and reminiscing about our favorite meals together.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose your favorite type; spaghetti or penne work wonderfully in soaking up that creamy sauce.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality whole tomatoes for depth of flavor; San Marzano is my go-to choice.

• Heavy Cream: Don’t skimp here! This adds that luxurious texture that makes everything feel indulgent.

• Fresh Basil: Use fresh leaves for a burst of fragrant herbiness; dried basil won’t do this dish justice.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves bring an aromatic punch; roasted garlic adds sweetness if you prefer something milder.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates this dish significantly—store-bought shredded cheese just won’t cut it!

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and sautéing—flavor matters!

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Remember to reserve some pasta water!

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—then toss in crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Add Tomatoes: Pour in canned tomatoes (with their juice) and break them apart using a wooden spoon. Let them simmer for 10-15 minutes until they thicken slightly.

Create the Creamy Base: Once the tomatoes are bubbling happily, stir in heavy cream until well incorporated. Allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Toss in Basil and Season: Tear fresh basil leaves by hand before adding them into the sauce along with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all those beautiful flavors.

Mingle with Pasta: Add drained pasta directly into the skillet along with reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is well coated in that divine sauce.

Now that you’ve conquered creamy tomato pasta like a true chef, it’s time to plate up! Serve hot with additional Parmesan sprinkled on top and maybe even a sprig of fresh basil for that Instagram-worthy finish! Enjoy every delightful bite—you’ve earned it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then sauté garlic and onion before adding tomatoes and cream to create the sauce. This sequence ensures everything blends beautifully while keeping your pasta perfectly cooked.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies, or sprinkle with parmesan for a cheesy twist. Personalizing this creamy tomato pasta keeps it exciting each time you make it.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or water in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where friends devoured my creamy tomato pasta faster than I could serve it. Their delighted faces made all the effort worthwhile!

FAQ

What can I use instead of cream?

You can substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option.

Can I add protein to creamy tomato pasta?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp makes an excellent addition.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days without losing quality.

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Creamy Tomato Pasta

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Creamy tomato pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into a delightful culinary experience. This rich, velvety pasta is enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce infused with garlic and fresh basil, making it a crowd-pleaser for dinner parties or cozy family meals. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this creamy delight will have everyone coming back for seconds!

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti or penne
• 1 can (28 oz) high-quality whole tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta al dente in salted boiling water; reserve some pasta water.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add canned tomatoes (with juice) and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
4. Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
5. Mix in torn basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
7. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 80mg