Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

Creamy Tomato Pasta is the ultimate comfort food: a luscious, velvety tomato sauce kisses every swirl of pasta, all ready in just 25 minutes! This easy-to-love dish draws on simple pantry staples and a splash of cream for a sauce that’s the perfect mix of tangy and rich. Whether you’re gathering friends on a weeknight or seeking a soul-warming solo meal, this bowl of Creamy Tomato Pasta is a fast favorite that doesn’t taste rushed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a long shopping list or fancy ingredients here—just a few humble staples that join forces to make magic happen. Each element brings something crucial, whether it’s creamy indulgence, vibrant color, or irresistible aroma.

• Uncooked Pasta (8 ounces): Penne, spaghetti, or any favorite shape will soak up that velvety sauce beautifully.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): This creates the base and adds silky smooth richness to your sauce right from the start.
• Garlic, minced (2-3 cloves): Sautéed briefly, garlic infuses every bite with subtle savory depth.
• Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): A concentrated punch of tomato flavor that anchors the sauce.
• Canned Tomato Sauce (14 ounces): The backbone of our sauce, lending a fresh, tangy tomato note and vibrant color.
• Heavy/Whipping Cream (3/4 cup): Responsible for the dreamy texture and mellowing out the acidity.
• Italian Seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch brings in herbal notes that make the sauce feel extra special.
• Salt & Pepper, to taste: Balances and brightens every other flavor; taste as you go for perfection.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese, for serving: Adds a salty, nutty finish—grate it fresh if you can for the best experience.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous handful of salt once it comes to a boil. Drop in your pasta and stir. Cook it until it’s just al dente—that perfect point where it still has a little bite. This gives the Creamy Tomato Pasta its ideal texture and ensures it won’t go mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Butter

While the pasta does its thing, place a skillet on medium-high heat and melt your butter. Once it’s frothy and fragrant, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute; you want the garlic just softened but not browned, so it stays sweet and mellow in the finished sauce.

Step 3: Create the Tomato Base

Now, add the tomato paste directly into the skillet. Let it cook for 30 seconds, waking up its flavor, before pouring in the canned tomato sauce. Give everything a thorough stir, making sure you scrape up any golden bits from the bottom. This base forms the heart and soul of your Creamy Tomato Pasta.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream along with the Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth and silky, with the cream effortlessly blending into the tomatoes. Let the sauce gently bubble for five minutes, thickening up and turning a beautiful shade of pink.

Step 5: Season and Adjust

Time for tasting! Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If the sauce is a smidge tangy for your taste, a tiny pinch of sugar will balance things out. Taste, adjust, and get ready for a simmering sauce that’s impossible to resist.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it straight to your skillet. Toss everything together so each piece is generously coated in that glorious sauce. Plate up immediately and shower with freshly grated parmesan. That’s Creamy Tomato Pasta bliss!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan is a must, but don’t be shy about adding delicate ribbons of basil, a crack of fresh black pepper, or even a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. For those who like a hint of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes gives an extra pop.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with a crisp green salad—think peppery arugula tossed in lemon and olive oil—or serve alongside garlicky toasted bread. Roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter also make this Creamy Tomato Pasta meal feel like a special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try twirling the pasta into neat nests with tongs and nestling them into shallow bowls. For a chic touch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a touch of lemon zest over each portion. Or, build a pasta bar: let each guest top their Creamy Tomato Pasta with their favorite add-ons, from grilled chicken to sautéed mushrooms or olives.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any Creamy Tomato Pasta completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, giving you an even cozier bowl next time.

Freezing

While pasta and cream sauces usually don’t freeze perfectly, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Expect the sauce to separate a bit after thawing, but a quick stir as you reheat will bring it mostly back together.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of extra cream or milk to a saucepan over low heat and gently warm the pasta, stirring often. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to split.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Tomato Pasta with gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free varieties can cook faster.

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil, choose a plant-based cream (like cashew or oat), and leave out or use vegan parmesan. The sauce will still be wonderfully creamy and flavorful.

Can I add protein to Creamy Tomato Pasta?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or sautéed Italian sausage are all fantastic additions. For a vegetarian boost, toss in some chickpeas or roasted vegetables.

How do I make the sauce less tangy?

If you find your sauce too acidic, stir in a pinch of sugar or even a splash of cream. This rounds out the flavors and brings forward that classic creamy tomato vibe.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for best results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving delight in a bowl, Creamy Tomato Pasta is your answer. The way the sauce clings to each forkful is pure joy, and it’s so simple you’ll want to add it to your weekly rotation. Treat yourself and the people you love to this irresistibly cozy pasta—there’s every reason to make it tonight!

Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

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5.2 from 14 reviews

This creamy tomato pasta recipe is a quick and easy dish made with a silky tomato sauce that is sure to impress. The combination of tomato, cream, and garlic creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal for any day of the week.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Pasta:

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta

Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste

Instructions

1. Boil Pasta: Boil a large, salted pot of water for the pasta and cook it al dente according to package instructions.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for about a minute.
3. Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, cream, and Italian seasoning. Cook until smooth and thickened for about 5 minutes.
4. Season and Serve: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Serve over cooked pasta, topped with parmesan cheese.

Notes

• I don’t recommend substituting the cream with lower-fat alternatives as it may curdle due to the acid in the tomatoes.
• This recipe can also be found in the Salt & Lavender: Everyday Essentials hardcover cookbook.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 447 kcal
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 654mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 76mg