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Creamy Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta Recipe Easy Homemade Dinner Idea

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A quick and easy creamy tomato cream sauce pasta that combines ripe tomatoes, rich cream, and garlic for a comforting and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (full-fat; half-and-half can be used for lighter version)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add 1 small chopped yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring garlic does not burn.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize slightly.
  5. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the full 28 oz (800 g) can of crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Slowly add 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream and 1 tablespoon butter, stirring continuously. Let simmer for another 5 minutes. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen.
  8. Toss in the cooked pasta and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to coat all noodles.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in a handful of chopped fresh basil.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

If sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen. Add cream on low heat and stir gently to prevent curdling. Use fresh garlic and onions for best flavor. Salt pasta water generously to season noodles. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut or almond milk and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato sauce, pasta recipe, easy dinner, homemade pasta sauce, quick pasta, comfort food, creamy pasta, tomato cream sauce

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