Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Flavorful and creamy, Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is a comforting dish that is quick to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a tasty meal without much hassle.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it combines simple ingredients that you might already have at home. The creamy tomato sauce is rich and delicious, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes to cook, which is always a win for dinner time.
How to Make Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the canned tomatoes (with juice), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Serve this pasta hot in bowls. Top with fresh basil and sprinkle some Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It goes well with a side salad or garlic bread.
How to Store Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Use your favorite pasta type; it can be spaghetti, penne, or any other shape you prefer.
- For a little extra flavor, you can add onions or bell peppers to the sauce.
- If you like it spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Variations
You can add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. You might also want to mix in some spinach or kale for added nutrients.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just dice them and cook them until soft in the pan.
Is it possible to make it lighter?
You can try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
How do I make it vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the cheese you use (if any) is vegetarian-friendly.
Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta Use any pasta shape you prefer.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes Canned tomatoes can be substituted with fresh diced tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half or plant-based cream for lighter options.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Minced garlic adds flavors to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Increase for a spicier dish.
- to taste Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Adds freshness to the dish.
- to taste Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) Grated on top before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Cooking
- Add the canned tomatoes (with juice), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.