Creamy Tomato Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes. This simple yet indulgent pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner or a weeknight meal that doesn’t require much effort but delivers big flavor. The creamy tomato sauce clings to the pasta, making each bite satisfying and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of tomato pasta with a creamy twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love pasta with a creamy, savory sauce, this Creamy Tomato Pasta is a must-try. The sauce is rich and velvety, thanks to the perfect combination of tomatoes and cream, while still offering the tangy and slightly sweet flavor of ripe tomatoes. This recipe is quick to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand. It’s versatile too—add protein, veggies, or herbs to customize it to your liking. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple meal or something a little more decadent, this pasta delivers on both taste and comfort.

Creamy Tomato Pasta

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
Make the sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss everything together, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Serve: Divide the creamy tomato pasta between plates, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed Italian sausage for a protein-packed version of this pasta.
Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian twist, you can add roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
Vegan version: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Extra spice: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit more heat.
Cheesy version: Stir in a handful of mozzarella cheese or ricotta for extra creaminess and a cheesy melt.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover creamy tomato pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this pasta by storing it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes work well too! Use about 4-5 medium tomatoes, chopped, and simmer them down into a sauce. You may need to cook it a little longer to achieve the right consistency.

2. Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. The texture will change, but it will still be creamy.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the pasta, reheat the sauce, and toss everything together.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, kale, or other veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

5. How can I make this sauce richer?

For a richer sauce, add a little butter along with the cream or use a bit of cream cheese to thicken the sauce.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any type of pasta will work, including penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

7. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce, but you may want to add extra herbs and seasoning since pre-made sauces can be less flavorful.

8. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce to bring in more heat. You can also stir in a bit of hot sauce if you like.

9. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! Stir in some grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or a combination of both for extra flavor and creaminess.

10. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tomato sauce and creamy richness in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight meal or a special treat, this dish is quick to prepare and always satisfying. With endless ways to customize it, from adding vegetables to choosing your favorite pasta, this creamy tomato pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s perfect for anyone craving a rich, flavorful, and comforting pasta dish!