Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Name: Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is a weeknight dinner dream come true! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and comforting dish that's perfect for the whole family. The creamy tomato sauce coats al dente pasta beautifully, making it an irresistible and satisfying meal. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for an even more delightful experience!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-11-25T14:55:38.977Z

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. This Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta is the answer. With its quick preparation and cooking time, you can bring a flavorful dinner to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a charming recipe that meets the demands of a busy weeknight while still being comforting and satisfying.

The simplicity of this dish makes it incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute different types of pasta or add your favorite vegetables to the sauce, ensuring that it fits your family's tastes. Plus, you can whip it up in less than 30 minutes! It's the kind of meal that allows you more time to relax after a long day.

A Delicious Family Favorite

Pasta is a universally loved dish, making it a predictable choice for family dinners. This creamy tomato pasta stands out with its rich flavors and smooth sauce that children and adults alike will adore. The preparation involves minimal chopping and uses pantry staples, so it's also economical, which is a win for families looking to save on groceries.

Not only is it delicious, but this pasta dish can spark creative cooking in your kitchen. You can let your kids help mix in their favorite additives, such as spinach or shredded cheese, making it an engaging meal-prep opportunity. You'll create memories while cooking together, ensuring that your dinner is not just a meal but an experience.

Tips for Success

To make the most of this simple recipe, start by choosing a pasta that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli. This ensures that each bite is flavorful and satisfying. Don't forget to taste the sauce before serving; adjusting the seasoning is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

For an extra touch of sophistication, consider adding freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving. This small addition enhances the creaminess and adds a delightful umami flavor that elevates the entire dish. Additionally, serve it with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of the rich sauce.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

12 oz pasta of your choice
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let simmer for 5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the creamy tomato sauce.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with your favorite side dish.

Nutritional Benefits

One of the appealing aspects of this creamy tomato pasta is its nutritional value. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, and they offer beneficial antioxidants that contribute to overall health. Coupled with the hearty carbohydrates from the pasta, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that can sustain energy levels, especially important for active families.

Utilizing heavy cream in moderation adds richness while also providing calcium, but if you're looking for a lighter option, consider substituting with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative. These small adjustments allow you to enjoy this pasta even when catering to dietary preferences without sacrificing the delicious creamy texture.

Storage and Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is quite straightforward. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is easy; simply warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

For those who love meal prep, you can double the recipe and freeze half of it. Assemble it without any toppings and store it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it later, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, ensuring a quick and delicious meal is always on hand.

Pairing Suggestions

Enhance your dining experience by pairing this creamy tomato pasta with a light, crisp side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce. Adding seasonal vegetables, nuts, or even some cheese will elevate the flavors and textures of the meal.

If you're in the mood for something heartier, garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are fantastic companions that complement the dish perfectly. Enjoying a glass of your favorite red wine or a non-alcoholic sparkling drink can also round out the meal and make it feel extra special, perfect for gatherings or a family night in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well with this creamy sauce.

→ Is this sauce suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days.