Speedy Creamy Tomato Pasta: Dinner in 20 Minutes!

Speedy Creamy Tomato Pasta: Dinner in 20 Minutes! 🍝🍅✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, delicious dish that comes together quickly, then our creamy tomato pasta is perfect for you. This 20-minute dinner recipe is a celebration of rich, velvety sauce blended with al dente pasta, making it an ideal quick pasta recipe for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this flavorful dish will impress without keeping you in the kitchen for long.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Pasta

  • 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Creamy Tomato Pasta

Boil and Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes to meld flavors.

Add Cream and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a luscious texture.

Combine Pasta with Sauce

Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every strand is generously coated. Adjust seasoning if needed, and cook for another minute to let the flavors meld together.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Tomato Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to revive the sauce.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Creamy Pasta Dish

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For more protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp, or check out our honey pepper chicken pasta for inspiration.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Tomato Pasta

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew-based cream. Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether for a vegan version.

How long does it take to prepare?

This quick pasta recipe takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy days.

Can I add vegetables or protein?

Absolutely! Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

8. Wrapping Up: Your Quick and Creamy Tomato Pasta

In just 20 minutes, you can create an indulgent yet simple creamy tomato pasta that everyone will love. This recipe highlights the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, rich cream, and aromatic herbs, providing a satisfying dinner with minimal effort. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a flavorful meal, this quick pasta recipe is your go-to solution. Happy cooking!

9. Conclusion

Enjoy this delightful creamy tomato pasta as a weeknight favorite or a last-minute dinner option. Remember, easy recipes like this allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring your meal. Try adding your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it even more personalized. For more inspired dinner ideas, explore our collection of dinner recipes and elevate your cooking game.

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A bowl of creamy tomato pasta topped with fresh basil and grated cheese, served on a rustic wooden table.

Speedy Creamy Tomato Pasta: Dinner in 20 Minutes!

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Speedy Creamy Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious dinner recipe that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. This flavorful dish features al dente pasta coated in a rich, velvety tomato and cream sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort. With fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, this pasta offers a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy flavors that will impress your family and guests alike.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat each strand. Cook for another minute to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether.
  • Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • To make the dish more protein-packed, include grilled chicken or shrimp.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 70 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

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