Description
Creamy Tomato Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes with a luscious cream sauce. The smooth, velvety texture of the sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit. The vibrant tomato flavor, paired with a hint of garlic and herbs, creates a well-balanced dish that’s both creamy and refreshing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine works well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, diced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Pasta: The base of this dish, which soaks up the creamy sauce and holds all the delicious flavors.
- Crushed Tomatoes: These provide a rich, sweet tomato flavor and a smooth texture for the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: The key to the creamy sauce, which adds richness and a silky smooth finish.
- Garlic and Herbs: Aromatic garlic, basil, and oregano create a depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A small amount of heat from red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later, and set the pasta aside.
Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in Cream: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, and simmer for another 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
- Serve: Divide the creamy tomato pasta among bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 10g