Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe: Rich & Flavorful Comfort Food

Looking for a quick and delicious pasta dish that’s both creamy and packed with flavor? This Creamy Tomato Pasta is the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and rich, velvety cream sauce. It’s an easy meal that feels gourmet, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 1 tsp salt
• 6 cups water

For the Creamy Tomato Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, blended)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

---

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add salt and the pasta, cooking according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the crushed tomatoeshttps://foodwithapunch.com/velveeta-spicy-sausage-dip/ and tomato paste, stirring well.
5. Sprinkle in sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until fully melted.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat evenly.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the creamy tomato pasta to a plate.
2. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

---

Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Use fresh tomatoes for a more natural, fresh taste. Blanch and blend them before using.
• Balance acidity with a small amount of sugar if needed.
• Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
• Make it vegan by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

This Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! 🍝😋