Name: Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni or penne pasta; 6 oz canned tomato paste; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup reserved pasta water; ½ yellow onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon dried basil (or 3 tablespoons fresh basil); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
Rich & Creamy – The combination of tomato paste and cream creates a smooth, luscious sauce.
Minimal Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a fuss-free meal.
Customizable – Easily add proteins, veggies, or extra seasoning.
Family-Friendly – A comforting dish that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb rigatoni or penne pasta
6 oz canned tomato paste
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup reserved pasta water
½ yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried basil (or 3 tablespoons fresh)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
Add the Cream & Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream and add basil, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
Serve & Garnish: Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled sausage.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for more nutrients.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.
Cheesier Version: Mix in shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan for a richer sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?

Yes! Blend fresh tomatoes into a purée and simmer longer to thicken the sauce.

2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine work best, as they hold the sauce well.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! The base is already vegetarian—just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

Gradually add pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk or half-and-half works best as a substitute.

6. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! Just store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent sogginess.

7. Can I add wine for extra depth?

Absolutely! Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of white wine before adding tomato paste.

8. How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

9. Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Yes! Butter adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor to the sauce.

10. What can I serve with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables make great side dishes.

Conclusion

Pasta with creamy tomato sauce is a simple yet luxurious meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this dish is guaranteed to be a comforting and satisfying dinner option. Try it tonight and enjoy a rich, creamy pasta that feels gourmet without the hassle!