If you’re craving a simple yet delightful dish, this Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is for you! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you need a weeknight dinner or something special, this recipe has you covered. Join me as I guide you through making this pasta dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Pasta (300g, spaghetti or penne)
– Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 400g)
– Heavy cream (1 cup)
Flavor Enhancers
– Extra-virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
– Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Spices and Seasonings
– Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
– Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. The pasta is the star, so choose your favorite type. I love using spaghetti or penne for this dish. The crushed tomatoes create a rich base. Heavy cream adds that creamy touch we all crave.
Next, we have the flavor enhancers. Extra-virgin olive oil gives a nice depth. Onions add sweetness, while garlic brings that aromatic punch. For spices, dried oregano and basil really round out the flavor. Sea salt and black pepper will help to enhance everything.
This list is simple, but each item plays a key role. When combined, they create a creamy tomato delight that is sure to impress. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 300g of pasta, like spaghetti or penne. Cook it until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Al dente means it has a slight bite. Once the pasta is done, drain it but keep about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This water helps make the sauce creamy. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Preparing the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and sauté it for 4-5 minutes until soft. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. The garlic should smell great but not burn. Now, pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes (400g), along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir it well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This step helps all the flavors blend together.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
After simmering the sauce, reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix until the sauce looks rich and creamy. Season it with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Now, gently add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss it to coat every piece with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a bit at a time. This will help reach your desired creamy consistency.
Serve your creamy tomato delight pasta warm. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your creamy tomato pasta even better, try adding extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the dish. Fresh basil brings a burst of flavor that dried herbs can’t match. If you have fresh tomatoes, use them instead of canned for a fresh taste. Just chop them up and cook them down to make a sauce.
Cooking Efficiently
Want to save time? Try meal prepping. Chop your onions and garlic ahead of time. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. When cooking, use one pot for everything. Cook the pasta and sauce in the same pot to cut down on dishes. Just drain the pasta, then add the sauce right into the pot. This makes cleanup easy.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to eat, think about sides. Garlic bread pairs well with this pasta. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. For drinks, a light white wine like Pinot Grigio works great. It balances the creaminess of the dish. Enjoy your meal with a warm smile and good company. For the full recipe, check out the link above.
Variations
Protein Additions
You can make this creamy tomato pasta even better by adding protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp works great. Just cook them separately and toss them in at the end. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or fresh spinach. They add a nice texture and boost the nutrition.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you want to skip the cream, you have options. Cashew cream is a great choice. Just soak raw cashews in water, blend, and stir it in. You can also use coconut milk. It adds a nice flavor and keeps the dish creamy.
Gluten-Free Choices
For a gluten-free meal, choose pasta made from rice or corn. These options taste great and give a nice bite. Many brands offer gluten-free versions that cook well and hold the sauce nicely. Enjoy a delicious meal without the gluten!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After enjoying your creamy tomato pasta, you might have leftovers. To store them properly, let the pasta cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep the pasta fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, just take it out and reheat.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to save your creamy tomato pasta for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing. Place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Your pasta can stay fresh in the freezer for about three months.
To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or more cream to keep it creamy. Heat it on low until warmed through. This way, you will keep the flavor and texture just right.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
FAQs
How long does it take to make creamy tomato pasta?
Making creamy tomato pasta takes about 25 minutes in total. You will spend around 5 minutes on prep and 20 minutes cooking. This quick time makes it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute meals.
Can I make creamy tomato pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare creamy tomato pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat, just reheat the sauce. Add the pasta to the sauce, and warm it on the stove. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen it up.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter or dairy-free version, try these alternatives:
– Coconut milk: It adds a creamy texture with a hint of coconut flavor.
– Cashew cream: Soak cashews and blend them with water for a rich, creamy option.
– Greek yogurt: This gives a tangy taste and adds protein.
– Almond milk with cornstarch: Mix almond milk with cornstarch to thicken it.
These substitutes will keep your pasta delicious while catering to your dietary needs.
This blog post covered how to make creamy tomato pasta from start to finish. We reviewed key ingredients, including pasta, crushed tomatoes, and heavy cream. I provided step-by-step instructions to help you cook efficiently. You learned about flavor enhancements, variations, and storage tips to keep your dish fresh.
As you try this recipe, remember to make it your own! Adjust spices and add proteins as you like. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite of your delicious meal.
