Creamy Tomato Pasta: A Deliciously Simple Recipe for Dinner

Creamy Tomato Pasta

Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any dining table. With its rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is a favorite among families and food lovers alike. The combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.

Historically, pasta has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, and the addition of creamy tomato sauce has made it a beloved variation across the globe. This dish not only showcases the versatility of pasta but also highlights the simplicity of using fresh ingredients to create something extraordinary.

People adore Creamy Tomato Pasta for its luscious texture and the way it effortlessly combines comfort with elegance. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is both convenient and impressive. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

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Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt will enhance the flavor of the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. While the pasta is cooking, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander. Set the pasta aside.

Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion.
2. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
5. Season the mixture with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together.
6. After the sauce has simmered, reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

1. Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce.
2. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. Make sure every piece of pasta is enveloped in that delicious creamy goodness.
3. If the pasta seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired creaminess.
4. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and enhance the flavor.

Serving the Dish

1. Once everything is well combined, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper.
2. To serve, plate the creamy tomato pasta in bowls or on plates.
3. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
4. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Choosing the Right Pasta: While penne and fusilli are great options, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that different shapes may alter the cooking time slightly.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, feel free to use them instead of dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the crushed tomatoes.
• Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the pasta.
• Storage: Leftover creamy tomato pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to

  

  Conclusion:

  If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity, this Creamy Tomato Pasta is an absolute must-try! The rich, velvety sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, creating a delightful experience that will leave you craving more. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also uses ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

  To elevate your Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. You can also toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, making it a heartier option. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. And don’t forget to finish it off with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of basil pesto for an extra layer of deliciousness.

  Serving suggestions are endless! Pair your Creamy Tomato Pasta with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. You could also serve it alongside a glass of your favorite white wine, which complements the creamy tomato sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it in a baked format by layering the pasta with cheese and baking it until bubbly and golden.

  I encourage you to give this Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe a try! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that you can share with family and friends. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience. Did you add any special ingredients or variations? How did your loved ones react? Sharing your culinary adventures not only inspires others but also creates a sense of community around the joy of cooking.

  So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious recipe. I promise you won’t regret it! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Creamy Tomato Pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking!

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  Creamy Tomato Pasta: A Deliciously Simple Recipe for Dinner

  This creamy tomato pasta features al dente pasta enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, infused with garlic, onion, and herbs. Quick to prepare, it's a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners that the whole family will enjoy.

  Prep Time10 minutes

  Cook Time20 minutes

  Total Time30 minutes

  Category: Quick Dinner

  Yield: 4 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

  Instructions

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander and set the pasta aside.
  5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  6. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  7. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  8. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
  9. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  10. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  11. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream until smooth.
  12. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  13. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce.
  14. Toss until well coated, adding more reserved pasta water if needed.
  15. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
  16. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  17. Plate the creamy tomato pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

  Notes

  • Choosing the Right Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, but be mindful of cooking times.
  • Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs if substituting.
  • Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
  • Protein Additions: Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a heartier meal.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.