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Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

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A quick and comforting creamy tomato pasta recipe ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • Salt, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend) or fresh herbs
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 oz (340 g) penne or preferred pasta shape
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Handful of fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 oz (340 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons 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 28 oz (800 g) can of crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, a pinch of salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Lower the heat and slowly stir in ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce meld together. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  5. Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper. Remove from heat. Plate the pasta and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Keep heat low when adding cream to avoid curdling. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Toss pasta in sauce while hot to absorb flavors. Can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or half-and-half for different dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tomato pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, creamy tomato sauce, penne pasta

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/easy-creamy-tomato-pasta-recipe-how-to-make-perfect-dinner-in-20-minutes/