Irresistible Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s something about creamy tomato pasta that makes my taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine a bowl of luscious, vibrant red sauce enveloping al dente pasta, each twirl filled with rich flavors and a hint of garlic. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that whispers, “Dinner is served, and it’s going to be amazing.” This dish isn’t just food; it’s comfort on a plate, perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at dinner parties.

The first time I made creamy tomato pasta, I was trying to impress a date. Spoiler alert: It worked! As I stirred the sauce, my cat observed me with both suspicion and hunger in her eyes. Let’s just say the meal was a hit—complete with compliments and even a few “Wow, you should open a restaurant!” remarks. Whether you’re celebrating an occasion or just enjoying a quiet night at home, this recipe promises to deliver joy in every bite.

I remember serving this dish during our family game night; the kids loved it so much they asked for seconds—and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: I recommend using penne or fettuccine because they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole or crushed tomatoes; they provide a rich base for our creamy sauce.

• Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess that coats every strand of pasta.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they add aromatic depth that elevates the dish.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese melts beautifully into the sauce for added flavor.

• Basil: Fresh basil adds brightness and balances the richness of the cream.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the garlic and adds flavor to the entire dish.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can ruin your dish.

Add Tomatoes: Pour in your canned tomatoes (crushed or whole) into the skillet. Break up any whole tomatoes with your spoon while stirring them into the garlic mixture.

Create Creamy Bliss: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until everything is well combined. You’ll notice it transforming into that beautiful creamy sauce we adore so much!

Season It Up!: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously into the sauce according to taste. Don’t skip this step—seasoning transforms good food into great food!

Toss Pasta with Sauce: Finally, add your cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently until every piece is coated evenly in that creamy goodness.

Now you’ve created a comforting bowl of creamy tomato pasta that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add diced tomatoes and simmer while cooking your pasta. This sequence ensures rich flavors meld smoothly with perfectly cooked pasta.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in fresh basil or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You might also toss in some spinach or grilled chicken for extra nutrition and flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.

Sharing this creamy tomato pasta recipe with my friends turned into a delightful dinner party where laughter filled the air, and everyone went back for seconds—just like I always do!

FAQ

Can I make creamy tomato pasta vegan?

Yes! Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan version.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for a nice kick of heat.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type!

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Creamy Tomato Pasta

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich, velvety tomato sauce infused with garlic and topped with fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and simple preparation that makes this dish both satisfying and delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot; add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet, breaking up any whole pieces with a spoon.
4. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, combining until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper; add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider including crushed red pepper flakes during sautéing for heat. You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a vegan twist. Spinach or grilled chicken can be added for extra nutrition.