Creamy tomato pasta is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite infused with rich, velvety tomato goodness that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing you with promises of comfort and satisfaction. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that transports you back to family dinners filled with laughter and love. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Whether you’re celebrating a cozy date night or simply craving a bowl of something divine after a long day, creamy tomato pasta delivers. With its dreamy sauce and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s likely to become your new go-to recipe for any occasion. Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion that will leave you eagerly anticipating seconds. For more inspiration, check out this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy tomato pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors and textures create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
- Visually, it’s stunning with vibrant colors that appeal to the eyes as much as the palate.
- It’s versatile enough to be paired with various proteins or enjoyed as a vegetarian delight.
Ingredients for creamy tomato pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work wonders in soaking up the sauce.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor; they are the heart of this dish.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess, transforming the simple tomato sauce into something magical.
- Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil elevates the dish with aromatic flavors; feel free to use dried if fresh isn’t available.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an irresistible aroma and depth to your sauce; don’t skimp on this one!
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan gives that extra umami kick; save some for garnishing at the end!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make creamy tomato pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember, we want it firm enough to hold onto our luscious sauce!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat some olive oil over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute should do it! Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly at this point.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Incorporate the canned diced tomatoes into your skillet with garlic. Stir gently while allowing it to simmer for about five minutes, letting those flavors mingle like old friends catching up over coffee.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Next comes the magic! Pour in heavy cream and stir well until combined. Let it simmer for another five minutes until thickened slightly; then add salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can adjust flavors based on preference.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Once your pasta is done cooking, reserve some pasta water (just in case!). Drain the rest and toss it into the skillet with creamy tomato sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you achieve desired creaminess.
Step 6: Finish with Basil and Cheese
Tear fresh basil leaves by hand into pieces and mix them into your creamy concoction. Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top—because who doesn’t love a cheesy finishing touch? cheesy Texas toast pizza.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra olive oil if you’re feeling fancy for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every last bite of this creamy tomato pasta delight.
You Must Know
- This creamy tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s a creamy hug for your taste buds.
- It’s simple to whip up and can be customized with whatever ingredients you have lying around.
- Perfect for impressing friends or satisfying a late-night craving.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil until fragrant. Next, add your tomatoes and let them simmer while you cook the pasta al dente. Combine everything, add cream, and voilà—creamy tomato pasta perfection awaits!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the penne for any pasta shape you adore. Toss in some spinach or roasted veggies for added nutrition. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can kick things up a notch—your taste buds will thank you!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover creamy tomato pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive its luscious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it should taste like the sea!
- This enhances flavor right from the start.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a burst of freshness that elevates your dish.
- Lastly, reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency!
It was during a cozy dinner party that my friend declared this creamy tomato pasta his new favorite dish. He even went back for seconds—who knew carbs could lead to such happiness?
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for creamy tomato pasta?
To prepare creamy tomato pasta, you will need a few simple ingredients. Start with pasta of your choice, such as penne or fettuccine. You’ll also need ripe tomatoes or canned tomatoes, heavy cream for the creamy texture, garlic, onion, and olive oil. Fresh basil adds flavor, while salt and pepper enhance the dish. Optional ingredients include grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
How long does it take to make creamy tomato pasta?
Making creamy tomato pasta is quick and easy! The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions, which typically takes around 10-12 minutes. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce by sautéing onions and garlic before adding tomatoes and cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors. Combining everything together takes just a couple of minutes. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights!
Can I make creamy tomato pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make creamy tomato pasta ahead of time! Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on low heat while cooking fresh pasta. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to get the right consistency since it may thicken when refrigerated. This method not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I serve with creamy tomato pasta?
Creamy tomato pasta pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Mexican street corn pasta salad For an elevated meal, consider serving grilled chicken or shrimp on top of your pasta. tomato feta cucumber salad Roasted vegetables also make a great addition, adding both nutrition and color to your plate.
Conclusion for creamy tomato pasta:
In summary, creamy tomato pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Using fresh ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta shape. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at home, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients or sides to customize your meal further! Enjoy this tasty dish filled with comfort and warmth.
Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy tomato pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of a velvety tomato sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can savor this comforting meal enhanced with fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Each bite is a flavor-packed experience that brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (or 2 tsp dried)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add canned diced tomatoes and let simmer for five minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper; let thicken for another five minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired creaminess.
- Mix in torn basil leaves and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables like spinach or roasted bell peppers. If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to taste. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
