There’s something magical about a bowl of Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta that instantly transports you to a cozy Italian trattoria. The rich aroma of tomatoes mingling with fresh herbs and creamy goodness wafts through the air, setting your taste buds ablaze with anticipation. Each slurp of pasta is like a warm hug for your stomach, bringing comfort and joy to even the busiest of days. Whether you’re having a romantic dinner or just need a quick meal after a long day, this dish is the answer to all your cravings. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
Picture yourself in the kitchen, sauce bubbling away, and pasta dancing in boiling water like they’re auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” With its vibrant red hues and luscious creaminess, this dish is not just food; it’s an experience. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those weeknight meals or when friends drop by unannounced. Get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills while barely breaking a sweat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making dinner prep a breeze.
- Its rich flavor profile combines tangy tomatoes with creamy goodness, creating a mouthwatering delight.
- The eye-catching red color makes it visually appealing on any dinner table.
- Versatile enough to pair with your favorite proteins or veggies, it’s sure to please everyone!
Ingredients for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Any type works well; penne or spaghetti are personal favorites for their ability to hold sauce.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor; it adds depth to your sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves give the best taste; feel free to adjust based on how garlicky you like things.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Look for quality brands without added sugar; they form the base of our delicious sauce.
- Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half adds richness; you can substitute with milk if preferred.
- Fresh Basil: Use it fresh if possible; it brightens up the dish with an aromatic touch.
For the Seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; season to taste as you go.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh for superior flavor; sprinkle generously before serving!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Super Easy 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 a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. No one likes mushy pasta! Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute should do.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Stir in canned diced tomatoes (juice included) along with salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about five minutes so those flavors can mingle beautifully.
Step 4: Stir in Cream
Pour in your cream of choice slowly while stirring continuously until well combined. This will transform your sauce into something velvety smooth!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss everything together so every noodle is coated in that creamy tomato goodness.
Step 6: Finish with Basil
Off heat, stir in freshly chopped basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra olive oil or more cheese for that perfect finishing touch! Enjoy your delightful creation!
You Must Know
- This Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is not just a dish; it’s the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers.
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- The creamy sauce clings to the pasta perfectly, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve maximum efficiency and flawless results, start by boiling your pasta first. While the pasta cooks, sauté your garlic and onions in a separate pan, then add diced tomatoes and cream for that rich sauce. Combine everything at the end.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by swapping the pasta type or adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms. For an extra kick, toss in red pepper flakes or fresh basil. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive its creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously; it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor than pre-shredded options.
- Finally, remember that cooking times can vary based on pasta shape – keep an eye on it!
Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about the first time I made this dish for friends; their faces lit up with joy as they devoured every last bite! It was a culinary triumph that found its way into our regular rotation.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta?
To make Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta, you will need pasta (such as penne or spaghetti), canned tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, onion, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh basil or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This simple dish requires minimal ingredients but delivers a rich and satisfying taste that everyone in your family will love.
How long does it take to prepare Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Preparing Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes boiling the pasta and cooking the sauce. It’s a quick recipe ideal for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Mexican street corn pasta salad With just a few steps, you can serve a comforting dish in no time.
Can I customize my Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Absolutely! You can customize your Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. If you enjoy protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp. creamy avocado bread You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences while maintaining the creamy tomato base that makes this dish so delightful.
Is Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is perfect for meal prep! The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it in individual portions. This makes it a great option for lunch or dinner during a busy week when you need something quick and tasty.
Conclusion for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta:
In conclusion, Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a delicious and quick meal. With just a few simple ingredients, this creamy tomato-based dish comes together effortlessly in under 30 minutes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own. tomato feta cucumber salad Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an easy lunch option, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy this comforting dish and impress your family with minimal effort!
Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is a comforting Italian classic that combines rich flavors in just 30 minutes. This delightful dish features perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious creamy tomato sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. With minimal ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that warms the soul and pleases the palate.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring continuously until well combined.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with sauce.
- Off the heat, mix in fresh basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider tossing in spinach or bell peppers during the simmering stage. For a protein boost, serve with grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
