Creamy Tomato Spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a rich, velvety tomato sauce. Enhanced with cream and aromatic herbs, this simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Tomato Spaghetti brings together classic flavors in a dish that’s both quick and indulgent. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Silky, flavorful sauce: The combination of tomatoes and cream creates a balanced, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Easy and quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Family-friendly: Its mild, comforting flavor appeals to both kids and adults.
- Versatile: Enjoy as-is, or add your choice of protein or vegetables.
- Great for leftovers: The flavors deepen and develop, making this dish delicious the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
spaghetti (or other long pasta)
olive oil
garlic (minced)
onion (finely chopped)
canned crushed tomatoes (or passata)
heavy cream (or double cream)
parmesan cheese (grated, optional)
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning or fresh basil (optional)
Directions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Make the sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and simmer: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning or basil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cream: Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve: Top with grated parmesan and extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15-20 minutes.
Variations
Creamy Tomato Spaghetti is easy to customize:
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Vegetarian boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Spicy version: Include a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Lighter option: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the cream may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, use ripe, chopped fresh tomatoes, but allow extra time for them to break down and thicken into a sauce.
What type of cream works best?
Heavy or double cream provides the richest texture, but light cream or half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce.
How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Simmer gently after adding the cream and avoid boiling the sauce.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well with the creamy tomato sauce.
Is parmesan necessary?
No, but it adds a savory depth. You can omit it or use another cheese like pecorino or mozzarella.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use plant-based cream and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer a bit longer before adding cream, or reduce the sauce after the cream is added.
What herbs go well in this sauce?
Basil, oregano, parsley, or thyme complement the creamy tomato flavors.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding tomatoes for extra depth.
What side dishes pair well with creamy tomato spaghetti?
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Spaghetti is a simple yet luxurious pasta dish that brings together the best of creamy and tangy flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy nights or when you’re craving a comforting meal. Enjoy it on its own or customize it with your favorite additions for a dish that’s sure to satisfy.
PrintCreamy Tomato Spaghetti
Creamy Tomato Spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a rich, velvety tomato sauce. Enhanced with cream and aromatic herbs, this simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Spaghetti (or other long pasta)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Canned crushed tomatoes (or passata)
- Heavy cream (or double cream)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning or fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning or basil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Top with grated parmesan and extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- To make it spicy, include chili flakes or hot sauce in the sauce.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg