Name: Creamy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish; Seared beef cubes or chicken (optional)

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Creamy Tomato Pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with tender pasta tossed in a velvety tomato-based cream sauce. Often paired with seared beef or chicken, this dish is a satisfying combination of hearty and smooth flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple yet luxurious, offering a creamy texture with the bright tang of tomato. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and can be easily customized with proteins or vegetables. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making every bite flavorful and fulfilling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fusilli or penne pasta
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Tomato paste
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil or parsley
Seared beef cubes or chicken (optional)

Directions

Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until coated.
Serve hot, topped with seared beef or chicken if desired, and garnish with herbs.

Servings and timing

Serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste.
Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add spinach or mushrooms.
Cheesy: Add mozzarella for a richer, stringy texture.
Vegan: Use dairy-free cream and omit Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, but cook them down thoroughly to thicken the sauce.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich.

What type of pasta works best?

Short shapes like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the sauce well.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, but add a bit of liquid when reheating to refresh the texture.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Not ideal, as the cream may separate.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini work well.

What protein pairs well?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef cubes are excellent.

Can I add wine?

Yes, a splash of white wine adds depth.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta.

Can I use canned tomato soup?

You can, but adjust seasonings to taste.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick, flavorful meal that satisfies with its bold tomato flavor and rich, creamy texture. Whether served plain or with protein, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Creamy Tomato Pasta

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Creamy Tomato Pasta is a rich and comforting dish featuring pasta tossed in a velvety tomato-based cream sauce, often served with seared beef or chicken for a hearty meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Serve hot, optionally topped with seared beef or chicken, and garnish with fresh herbs.