Name: Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 14 ounce can tomato sauce; 3/4 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream); 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt & pepper (to taste); Freshly grated parmesan cheese (for serving, to taste)

Introduction to Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

If you’re a busy professional juggling work, social commitments, and maybe even a side hustle, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel like a daunting task. That’s where homemade pasta dishes, like our super easy creamy tomato pasta, come into play. Not only does this dish come together in just 25 minutes, but it also uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making meal prep as efficient as possible.

Homemade pasta can be a game changer for busy individuals. A study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that cooking at home generally leads to healthier meal choices, which can help boost productivity and reduce stress. Plus, when you make it yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, tailoring the dish to suit your taste.

Imagine digging into a bowl of silky, creamy tomato sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta after a long day—delicious! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking to impress your friends over dinner, this creamy tomato pasta is incredibly versatile, letting you add vegetables or proteins to suit your dietary needs. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy!

For the full recipe, check out Natasha Bull’s blog.

Ingredients for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Essential ingredients you'll need

To whip up this super easy creamy tomato pasta, you won't need to run around searching for rare ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces uncooked pasta – any type you love, from penne to spaghetti.
2 tablespoons butter – for that rich, comforting flavor.
2-3 cloves minced garlic – because who doesn’t love garlic?
2 tablespoons tomato paste – this adds depth to our sauce.
1 (14-ounce) can of tomato sauce – the star ingredient for a luscious base.
¾ cup heavy cream – for the dreamy creaminess.
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning – to elevate the taste.
Salt & pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese – to finish it off with a sprinkle of cheesy goodness.

Substitutions for dietary preferences

If you have specific dietary needs, don’t worry—this recipe is adaptable! Here are some simple substitutions:

Pasta: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary preferences.
Butter: Use olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Cream: Try coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a vegan alternative.
Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese can mimic the flavor beautifully.

With these easy swaps, you can tailor this dish while still keeping it utterly delicious! If you're interested in exploring more substitutions and dietary options, check out the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Preparing Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Making super easy creamy tomato pasta is not just a delightful culinary experience; it's also incredibly straightforward. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal in no time. Let's break down the process step-by-step to ensure that your cooking adventure is smooth and enjoyable.

Boil the pasta

To kick things off, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Make sure to add a generous pinch of salt since it’ll enhance the pasta's flavor as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then toss in 8 ounces of your favorite pasta. I recommend something like penne or fusilli for that perfect sauce cling. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that ideal al dente texture. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta, but don’t toss the water just yet; you might need a splash later!

Sauté the garlic

While your pasta is cooking, it's time to add some aromatic goodness to the dish with sautéed garlic. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once it's bubbly, toss in 2-3 minced garlic cloves. This step only takes about a minute; keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning. The fragrant aroma filling your kitchen will have you eager to dig in!

Combine the tomato sauce and cream

Now for the moment of magic: creating the creamy tomato sauce. To your sautéed garlic, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste—a little adds a lot in terms of flavor—and one 14-ounce can of tomato sauce. Stir that together smoothly before pouring in ¾ cup of heavy cream. To finish, sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, stirring until the mix is perfectly combined and creamy. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken to your liking. Feel free to adjust with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!

Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce

Once your sauce has thickened beautifully, it’s time to unite the flavors! Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, this is where your reserved pasta water comes in; add a splash to loosen it up. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is generously coated in that silky sauce.

Serve warm with toppings

Finally, it’s time to serve your super easy creamy tomato pasta! Transfer it to a big serving bowl or individual plates. For that restaurant-style finish, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can even sprinkle some fresh basil if you have it on hand for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish warm, and watch it become a new favorite in your weeknight meal rotation!

For more delicious pasta recipes, feel free to check out The Kitchn or Serious Eats for ideas that will inspire your cooking journey!

Variations on Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Adding Protein Options Like Chicken or Turkey Bacon

Feeling like boosting your protein content? Super easy creamy tomato pasta is a fantastic base for adding protein. Sauté some diced chicken breast or add crispy slices of turkey bacon for a delightful twist. Just cook the protein separately and mix it in just before serving. Not only does this add flavor, but it also makes the dish heartier, ensuring you’re energized for your day.

Making It Vegetarian-Friendly With Extra Veggies

If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian-friendly, why not load it up with extra veggies? Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers mix beautifully with the creamy sauce. You can simply sauté these veggies along with the garlic for a colorful and nutritious addition. Alternatively, try roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor, elevating your super easy creamy tomato pasta from basic to gourmet! For more veggie-friendly pasta inspiration, check out this guide on incorporating seasonal vegetables.

Cooking tips and notes for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Perfecting the sauce consistency

To achieve the dreamy smoothness of your sauce in this super easy creamy tomato pasta, aim for a balance between creaminess and richness. If the sauce becomes too thick as you cook it, don’t hesitate to add a splash of hot pasta water for that perfect silkiness. For those who prefer a lighter sauce, consider reducing the heavy cream slightly and adjusting with additional tomato sauce.

Ways to enhance flavor with spices

Unlock even more flavor by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or fresh basil for a burst of freshness. You can also play around with spices like oregano or thyme—these can elevate your dish and make it extra special. Feeling adventurous? A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the overall flavor profile, making every bite more delightful!

Serving suggestions for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Pairing with salads and garlic bread

Elevate your super easy creamy tomato pasta by serving it alongside a fresh, vibrant salad. A classic Caesar or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the creaminess beautifully. Don't forget to add some crusty garlic bread! The crunchy, buttery texture is perfect for mopping up that silky sauce.

Creative plating ideas to impress your guests

Make your super easy creamy tomato pasta visually appealing by plating it with style. Consider using large, shallow bowls. Twirl the pasta into nests and top with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves for a pop of color. You could even drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction around the plate for a fancy touch. These small details will surely impress your guests!

For more plating ideas, check out resources like Serious Eats and Food52 to inspire your culinary creativity.

Time Breakdown for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Preparing a delicious super easy creamy tomato pasta doesn't have to take all evening! Here’s how the timing breaks down:

Preparation Time

Spend just 5 minutes gathering your ingredients and prepping the garlic and tomatoes. It’s as easy as that!

Cooking Time

Once you’re set, you'll need about 20 minutes on the stove to cook the pasta and create that velvety sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Total Time

In just 25 minutes, your creamy tomato pasta will be ready to serve—ideal for those busy evenings when you need a quick yet satisfying meal.

For more tips on setting the perfect dinner table and finding the best ingredients, check out this link for expert advice!

Nutritional Facts for Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Caloric Content

One serving of this super easy creamy tomato pasta contains approximately 500-600 calories. This makes it a satisfying meal for any time of the day, perfect for a quick dinner after a long day at work.

Protein Content

This delicious dish packs in about 14 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of pasta and optional toppings like parmesan cheese or diced chicken. Adding grilled chicken or turkey bacon can further boost the protein content, making it a well-rounded meal.

Fat and Carbohydrates

You’ll find around 25 grams of fat and 60 grams of carbohydrates in each serving of super easy creamy tomato pasta. The creamy sauce adds richness, while the carbs from the pasta provide the energy you need to stay energized throughout your busy day.

For more details on fresh ingredients and their benefits, check Healthline's article on pasta.

FAQs about Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Can I make this pasta in advance?

Absolutely! The super easy creamy tomato pasta can be prepared ahead of time. Make the sauce and cook the pasta separately, then combine them just before serving. This will keep the pasta from becoming too soggy.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for about a month.

What’s the best way to reheat creamy pasta?

Reheating can be a bit tricky due to the creaminess of the sauce. For best results, warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, covering it to retain moisture, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Conclusion on Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

In wrapping up your super easy creamy tomato pasta, remember that this delightful dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and creaminess. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and let your taste buds rejoice! For more tips and variations, explore Salt & Lavender.