Creamy Tomato Pasta – Quick, Rich & Irresistible!

This Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, velvety sauce and tender pasta, made with simple pantry staples in just 20 minutes! Featuring garlic, onions, crushed tomatoes, and a touch of cream, this dish is easy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights.

The best part? You can customize it with your favorite proteins and veggies for a satisfying meal!

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Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Pasta

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

Garnishing & Serving:

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

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2. Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

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3. Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. Pour in crushed tomatoes, then add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and sugar.
2. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.

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4. Combine Pasta & Sauce

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

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5. Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
2. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper on top.

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Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Pasta

Use high-quality crushed tomatoes – Enhances the sauce’s depth.
Save pasta water – Helps adjust the sauce consistency.
Let the sauce simmer – Develops a richer, more balanced flavor.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the pasta water – It helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
Overcooking the garlic – Can turn bitter quickly.
Adding Parmesan too soon – It melts best in warm, not boiling sauce.

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Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or bruschetta.
• Pair with a fresh arugula or Caesar salad.
• Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra protein.

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How to Store & Make Ahead

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing:

• Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk and vegan Parmesan.
• Add protein – Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
• Use different cheeses – Swap Parmesan for goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.

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What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Roasted vegetables (zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers)
• Caprese salad with balsamic glaze
• Crispy garlic bread or homemade breadsticks

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes! Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as thick.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best, but any pasta will do!

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Store the sauce separately and reheat with a little milk before mixing with pasta.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato Pasta is rich, garlicky, and packed with bold tomato flavor, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any occasion! With simple ingredients and a 20-minute cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant date nights.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy pasta recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 420 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

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