If you have a soft spot for rich, comforting dishes that come together quickly yet feel utterly indulgent, this Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti enveloped in a luscious sauce that combines the tangy brightness of tomato with the dreamy silkiness of cream and parmesan. It’s a symphony of familiar flavors that hits all the right notes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal with friends and family. Every bite invites you to savor the satisfying blend of textures and tastes that only a homemade creamy tomato pasta can deliver.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish truly special is how simple, everyday ingredients transform into something magical when brought together. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the butter adding richness, the garlic and onion building a fragrant base, or the parmesan lending that irresistible savory kick.
- 300g/10 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
- 2 tbsp / 30g unsalted butter: Adds a smooth, buttery depth essential for the sauce’s richness.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a subtle punch of warmth and aroma.
- ½ onion, finely chopped: Offers a delicate sweetness that balances the tomato’s acidity.
- 1 cup / 250 ml tomato passata (tomato puree): The star ingredient providing that vibrant, tangy flavor and bright color.
- 3/4 cup / 185 ml heavy/thickened cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
- 1/2 cup / 125 ml milk, low fat: Helps lighten the sauce just a touch while maintaining velvety smoothness.
- 3/4 cup / 30g parmesan, finely freshly grated: Delivers a salty, nutty richness that melds beautifully with the tomato and cream.
- 1 tsp dried basil or herb of choice: Adds a hint of earthy green herbaceousness for freshness.
- 1 tsp chicken or vegetable stock powder (or 1 bouillon cube, crumbled): Enhances the depth of flavor, making the sauce more savory and well-rounded.
- Finely ground pepper + salt: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by boiling your spaghetti in a large pot of salted water, but cook it for about two minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures the pasta stays slightly firm, so it doesn’t become mushy once tossed in the sauce. Before draining, don’t forget to save a mugful of the pasta cooking water – this starchy liquid will be your secret weapon later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Step 2: Sauté the aromatics
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, then cook gently for about two minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds the aromatic foundation for the sauce, unlocking sweet and savory notes that elevate the whole dish.
Step 3: Create the tomato cream sauce
Now, pour in the tomato passata, heavy cream, milk, parmesan, dried basil, and stock powder all at once. Stir everything together until the parmesan melts completely and the mixture starts to blend into a silky, homogenous sauce. Turn the heat up slightly and let it simmer for about two minutes; this helps the flavors meld and the sauce thicken just enough. Adjust the salt to your taste here – it’s where those seasonings really shine.
Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce
Drain your pasta and add it straight into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently for one to two minutes. What you’re aiming for is the sauce to cling lovingly to each strand of spaghetti, rather than pool on the bottom of the pan. If the sauce gets too thick or you want it a bit looser, stir in some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve immediately
The magic happens when you plate this pasta while it’s still warm. Garnish it with a little extra parmesan and some fresh parsley if you have it, then dig in right away for the best experience – every mouthful will taste like a warm hug.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Keeping the garnishes simple lets the sauce shine, but adding freshly grated parmesan or a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh, inviting touch. For a bit more crunch and flavor contrast, toasted pine nuts or thinly sliced chili flakes can also work beautifully. These small extras really make your creamy tomato pasta recipe feel special.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is wonderfully rich, pairing it with a light, crisp side can balance the meal perfectly. Think fresh green or mixed leaf salads with a bright vinaigrette, garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce, or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. Each offers texture and freshness that complements the creamy tomato flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a little fancy? Serve the creamy tomato pasta recipe in individual shallow bowls and finish each with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a few whole basil leaves for a pop of color and aroma. You could also toss in some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a protein boost or swirl a spoonful of pesto into the sauce for an herby twist. Presentation is your canvas, so have fun with it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so addictive), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so be prepared to loosen it slightly with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for this creamy tomato pasta recipe since cream-based sauces can sometimes separate. If you do freeze leftovers, portion the pasta and sauce separately if possible, and use them within one month for best quality.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, with a little milk or reserved pasta water to restore that smooth, luscious sauce texture. Avoid using high heat or the microwave alone, as it can make the sauce curdle or the pasta dry out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully to hold the sauce, feel free to experiment with penne, fettuccine, or even farfalle. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is there a non-dairy substitute for the cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will change slightly. Using unsweetened plant-based milk is another option but may result in a lighter sauce.
Can I add protein to this Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy pancetta make fantastic additions. Simply cook your chosen protein separately and toss it in during the final pasta mixing stage.
How can I make this recipe more spicy?
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce while simmering the sauce. Alternatively, garnish with sliced fresh chili peppers for a vibrant kick.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the tomato cream sauce ahead and keep it refrigerated, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh just before serving to maintain the ideal texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is a beautiful balance of simple ingredients and rich flavor that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s perfect for anytime you crave something hearty, satisfying, and quick to whip up. I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough because it feels like a warm embrace in a bowl every time. So go ahead, gather those pantry staples, and treat yourself to this deliciously creamy and tangy pasta delight!
Print
Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed in a rich tomato cream sauce made with garlic, onion, tomato passata, and parmesan cheese. This quick and comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 300g/10 oz spaghetti
- 1 tsp dried basil (or other herb of choice)
- 1 tsp chicken or vegetable stock powder (or 1 bouillon cube, crumbled)
- Finely ground pepper and salt to taste
Dairy
- 2 tbsp / 30g unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup / 185 ml heavy/thickened cream
- 1/2 cup / 125 ml low-fat milk
- 3/4 cup / 30g parmesan cheese, finely freshly grated
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup / 250 ml tomato passata (tomato puree)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions minus 2 minutes to keep it slightly undercooked. Just before draining, reserve a mugful of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the tomato passata, heavy cream, low-fat milk, dried basil, chicken or vegetable stock powder, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the parmesan melts into the sauce. Increase heat slightly and let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings well to the spaghetti rather than pooling at the bottom. If the sauce is too thick, use some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with additional parmesan and parsley if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Note 1: Tomato passata can be substituted with smooth tomato puree if needed.
- Note 2: Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream for a lighter version.
- Note 3: Freshly grated parmesan is preferred for best melting and flavor.
- Note 4: Stock powder or bouillon cube enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
- Reserved pasta water helps to adjust sauce consistency and helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
