If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and comforting, this creamy tomato pasta is the perfect choice. It combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the smooth texture of cream, making it an easy yet indulgent dish for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re serving it as a quick dinner after a long day or treating yourself to something special, this pasta will definitely satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this creamy tomato pasta because it’s the ideal balance of simplicity and indulgence. With just a few pantry staples, I can whip up a flavorful, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta. The dish is quick to make, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish, yet it tastes like something you’d find at a cozy Italian restaurant. The addition of heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously creamy, while the fresh basil adds a refreshing touch. Whether I’m looking for comfort food or a dish to impress guests, this creamy tomato pasta always delivers.
Ingredients
200g pasta (penne or spaghetti work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream for a dairy-free option)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional for dairy-free)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour in the canned tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat, adding the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the grated parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up, there are a few variations I like to try:
Add protein: For a heartier meal, I sometimes add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon to the pasta.
Vegan option: I use plant-based cream and skip the parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version, but a dairy-free cheese substitute can be added for that extra cheesy touch.
Vegetable boost: Adding sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can give the dish some extra texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
This creamy tomato pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend warming it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
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FAQs
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If I want a bit of heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I sauté the garlic, or I stir in some hot sauce or chopped fresh chili with the tomatoes.
Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the sauce ahead of time and keep it stored in the fridge. Then, when I’m ready to eat, I just cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this pasta dairy-free?
Absolutely! I just swap the heavy cream for a plant-based cream and leave out the parmesan. It’s still creamy and delicious without the dairy.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, I can substitute fresh tomatoes, but I’ll need to peel and chop them, and I might need to cook the sauce a little longer to reach the right consistency.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If I want a thicker sauce, I cook it a bit longer to allow it to reduce, or I add more heavy cream. I also sometimes add a bit of pasta water to help it reach the perfect consistency.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato pasta is an incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when I’m in the mood for a comforting meal. With minimal ingredients, it’s easy to prepare but still feels like a treat. Whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining guests, this pasta always hits the spot.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a rich, creamy tomato pasta that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting treat. With a blend of sweet tomatoes and smooth cream, this dish is easy to make yet luxurious in flavor. It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a go-to for busy nights when you crave something indulgent and satisfying. Try this creamy tomato pasta with your favorite pasta, and top it off with fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor.
Ingredients
200g pasta (penne or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream for a dairy-free option)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional for dairy-free)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
-
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
-
Pour in the canned tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
-
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat, adding the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the grated parmesan cheese for extra richness.
-
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra protein.
For a vegan option, use plant-based cream and skip the parmesan.
You can mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: 420 kcal
