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Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

easy creamy tomato pasta - featured image

A quick and comforting creamy tomato pasta recipe made with just five simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) dry pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  3. Pour in the 14 oz (400 g) can of crushed tomatoes. Stir and let simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly and mellow acidity.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream. Mix well and warm through for 2-3 minutes until sauce is smooth and pinkish. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time if sauce is too thick.
  5. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce pan. Stir gently to coat evenly. Add more reserved pasta water if needed. Cook together for another minute to meld flavors.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Tear fresh basil or parsley over the top if using.
  7. Serve immediately with an optional drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta. Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Simmer tomato sauce briefly to soften acidity. Use fresh cream or a good substitute for best texture. Adjust seasoning after combining pasta and sauce. Avoid overcooking pasta in the sauce to keep it al dente.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato pasta, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, simple ingredients, weeknight meal, creamy sauce, tomato sauce pasta