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Creamy Tomato Pasta

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A quick and easy creamy tomato pasta recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes using simple pantry staples, perfect for a comforting homemade dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces / 400 grams) crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • A handful fresh basil, roughly chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 9–11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Pour in the 14-ounce (400 grams) can of crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine, and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  4. Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream and 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until the cheese melts and sauce turns creamy. Avoid boiling vigorously.
  6. Reserve about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta using a colander.
  7. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat. Add reserved pasta water gradually if sauce is too thick.
  8. Stir in a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves just before serving.
  9. Plate immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Keep heat moderate when adding cream to prevent curdling. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut or cashew cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, homemade pasta sauce, weeknight dinner, creamy tomato sauce

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/creamy-tomato-pasta-recipe-easy-20-minute-homemade-dinner-idea/