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Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta: The Perfect 15-Minute Weeknight Dinner

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Searching for a new, delicious pasta recipe that comes together in a flash? Look no further! This Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta is a game-changer, offering a luscious, velvety tomato sauce made with simple pantry ingredients in less than 10 minutes. The entire dish can be ready on your table in just about 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for even the busiest weeknights.

This meatless meal is a fantastic pasta dinner recipe that the whole family will adore. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that doesn’t require any meat, yet satisfies completely. With just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s perfect for those evenings when you want to minimize your time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or quality.

A budget-friendly and delicious creamy tomato pasta perfect for family meals.

Why You’ll Adore This Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta

This recipe isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a testament to how incredible simple ingredients can be when combined thoughtfully. Here’s why this creamy tomato pasta will become a staple in your meal rotation:

Incredibly Quick: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 15-20 minutes. It’s faster than takeout!
Pantry Staple Friendly: Most ingredients are common items you likely keep stocked, making impromptu dinner plans a breeze.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of tomato paste, tomato sauce, and heavy cream creates a deeply satisfying and wonderfully smooth sauce.
Family-Approved: Its mild yet savory flavor appeals to both adults and picky eaters alike.
Versatile: Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or a protein boost, transforming it into a different meal each time.
Meatless & Hearty: A fulfilling vegetarian option that still feels substantial and comforting.

Key Ingredients for Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta

Easy creamy tomato pasta — Gathering simple ingredients for a delicious and easy creamy tomato pasta.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need exotic ingredients to create something truly spectacular. Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy tomato pasta masterpiece:

Pasta: The foundation of our dish! You can use any shape of uncooked pasta you love or have on hand. Classic choices like spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work beautifully as their surfaces are excellent for clinging onto the rich sauce. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. It forms the rich base for sautéing the garlic and contributes significantly to the creamy texture and flavor of the sauce.
Seasoning: A blend of aromatic flavors brings this sauce to life.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for depth. Don’t skimp on it! Sautéing it briefly before adding tomatoes unleashes its full aroma.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram, providing a classic Italian flavor profile.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
Tomato: We use a dynamic duo for the ultimate creamy tomato pasta texture and flavor:
- Tomato Paste: This concentrated tomato product adds a deep, rich, umami flavor that can’t be achieved with just sauce. Cooking it briefly helps to develop its sweetness and complexity.
- Tomato Sauce: Provides the liquid base and natural tomato sweetness for the sauce, creating a smooth and consistent consistency.
Cream: For that signature richness and velvety texture, heavy whipping cream is the star. It transforms the tomato base into an incredibly smooth and luxurious sauce, giving it that irresistible pink hue.
Cheese: Parmesan cheese is an absolute must for an added boost of salty, nutty flavor. Stirred into the creamy marinara sauce at the end, it melts beautifully, thickening the sauce slightly and adding a delightful tang.

How to Make Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta

Creating this flavorful pasta dish is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a truly satisfying meal:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve about ½ to 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This “liquid gold” is crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat on your stove. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute, stirring frequently until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine and Thicken: Next, add the tomato paste, tomato sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Whisk everything together thoroughly until well combined and smooth. Let the sauce gently simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Finish the Dish: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the creamy tomato sauce in the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and coats the pasta beautifully. Toss everything together to ensure every strand of pasta is coated in the rich, pink sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storing Leftover Creamy Tomato Pasta

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious! Proper storage ensures you can savor it again:

Fridge: Transfer any leftover creamy tomato pasta into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While the sauce might thicken further in the fridge, it will still be tasty.
Reheating: When reheating, whether in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, add a splash of milk, cream, or even a little water to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Creamy Tomato Pasta

How to Thicken the Sauce:

If you find your creamy tomato sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, there are a couple of easy fixes. The best method is to add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water. The starch from the pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it thicker and silkier. Start with a tablespoon or two and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, a tiny sprinkle of flour or cornstarch (mixed with a tablespoon of cold water first) can also do the trick, but pasta water is preferred for flavor and texture.

Other Delicious Ingredients to Add:

This creamy tomato pasta recipe is a fantastic base for customization. Feel free to experiment with these additions to enhance its flavor and nutritional value:

Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle kick of heat, sprinkle in a pinch or two of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings.
Fresh Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking the sauce. It will wilt beautifully into the warm sauce, adding color and nutrients.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes can be sautéed with the garlic or added to the sauce to burst and release their sweet juices, adding a fresh dimension.
Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavors with fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or a sprig of oregano stirred in just before serving.
Sautéed Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms until golden brown and add them to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
Vegetable Broth: If you find the sauce is too thick before adding the cream, a splash of vegetable broth can thin it out while adding another layer of flavor.

How to Add Protein to This Delicious Sauce:

While delicious on its own, adding protein can make this creamy tomato pasta an even more fulfilling meal. Here are some great options:

Ground Meat: Brown ground beef, ground turkey, or ground Italian sausage in the skillet before adding the butter and garlic. Drain any excess fat, then proceed with the sauce steps.
Chicken: Cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken or diced, pan-fried chicken breast can be stirred into the sauce at the end.
Shrimp: Quick-cooking shrimp can be sautéed separately and then tossed into the finished pasta.
Plant-Based Protein: For a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding a can of drained chickpeas, white beans, or sautéed firm tofu cubes to the sauce.

Choosing the Best Type of Pasta:

The beauty of pasta is its versatility! Pick any pasta shape of your choosing, or simply use whatever you have on hand. The key is to cook it to a perfect al dente texture. Here are some favorites that pair exceptionally well with creamy sauces:

Angel Hair Pasta: Delicate and quick-cooking, perfect for a lighter feel.
Penne Pasta: Its tubular shape and ridges capture and hold the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Farfalle Pasta (Bow-tie pasta): The “wings” of farfalle are excellent for scooping up rich sauces.
Rigatoni: Similar to penne but larger, offering more surface area for the sauce.
Fettuccine or Tagliatelle: Flat, wide noodles that are classic for rich, creamy sauces.

Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta

By:

Julia Pacheco

Create the best Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta with only a handful of ingredients from the pantry and in less than 20 minutes.

Prep:

2

Cook:

10

Total:

15

Servings:
4

Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta, any pasta will work
2 tablespoons butter
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 tbsp tomato paste
14 ounce can tomato sauce
¾ cup heavy/whipping cream
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
pinch pepper
¼ cup parmesan cheese

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the butter; once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for one minute, stirring often until fragrant. Next, add the tomato paste, tomato sauce, cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk well and let cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese, tossing to combine evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Tomato Pasta

This creamy tomato pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions to create a more rounded dining experience:

Garlic Bread or Crusty Ciabatta: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that amazing creamy sauce.
Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini can add extra nutrients and texture.
A Sprinkle of Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this creamy tomato pasta dairy-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For the heavy cream, use full-fat coconut milk (from a can, not a carton) or a dairy-free cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor in place of Parmesan.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

Tomato paste is crucial for the depth of flavor. If you absolutely don’t have it, you can try reducing an equal amount of tomato sauce in a separate pan until it’s very thick, or add a little extra tomato sauce and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. The flavor won’t be as robust, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, you can, but the texture will be different. If using diced tomatoes, you might want to blend them slightly to achieve a smoother sauce, or cook them down longer to break them apart. Adjust the cooking time and liquid (add some pasta water or broth) as needed to reach the desired consistency.

How can I make the pasta spicier?

To add a kick, incorporate red pepper flakes with the garlic. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish for an extra layer of heat.

What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. As mentioned in the tips, adding a bit of reserved pasta water can help thicken the sauce due to its starch content. If the sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a splash of pasta water, milk, or vegetable broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.

More Delightful Pasta Recipes

If you loved this recipe, be sure to explore more of our pasta creations for easy and satisfying meals:

Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Noodle Soup
Dump and Go Garlic Chicken Pasta Casserole
3 Ingredient One Pot Sausage Pasta
Rotisserie Chicken Bacon Alfredo

Explore simple family meal plans for stress-free dinners.

Quick Links for Making Dinner Easy

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This Rich and Creamy Tomato Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a promise of a quick, satisfying, and incredibly delicious meal that brings comfort to your table. We encourage you to give it a try and discover your new favorite weeknight dinner!

If you give these recipes a try, make sure to tag us on Instagram @julia.pacheco.cooking and let us know how much you liked the recipes!