Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce: A Rich and Comforting Delight

Have you ever had one of those days when you just need a comforting meal to warm your heart and soul? Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of spaghetti coated in a creamy, rich tomato sauce, the kind that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce is that dish. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors that will transport you straight to an Italian trattoria without ever leaving your kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this dish is a sure-fire way to bring smiles to the table. It’s creamy, savory, and just a little indulgent—everything a perfect pasta dish should be. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this ultimate comfort food!

Why You’ll Love Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

This dish is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting tradition. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Creamy and Dreamy: The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a luscious, velvety texture that clings to each strand of spaghetti.
• Balanced Flavors: The tanginess of tomato puree is perfectly balanced with the richness of cream and the savory notes of garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese.
• Easy and Quick: With simple ingredients and a prep time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute get-togethers.
• Customizable: Add herbs, veggies, or even proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it your own.

It’s the perfect dish for those who love classic pasta flavors with a touch of indulgence.

Ingredients for Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this rich and satisfying dish:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Spaghetti	300g / 10 oz	The base of the dish; holds the creamy sauce.
Unsalted Butter	2 tbsp / 30g	Adds richness and sautées the aromatics.
Garlic Cloves (minced)	3	Provides depth and a subtle zing to the sauce.
Onion (finely chopped)	½	Adds sweetness and builds the sauce’s flavor.
Tomato Passata / Puree	1 cup / 250 ml	The tangy and vibrant base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream	¾ cup / 185 ml	Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
Low-Fat Milk	½ cup / 125 ml	Lightens the sauce slightly without sacrificing creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese (grated)	¾ cup / 30g	Adds a nutty, savory kick to the dish.
Dried Basil (or herbs)	1 tsp	Provides aromatic depth and a hint of freshness.
Chicken/Vegetable Stock Powder	1 tsp or 1 bouillon cube	Enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
Salt	To taste	Balances and enhances all flavors.
Finely Ground Pepper	To taste	Adds a subtle heat and complexity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
• Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
• Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, then sauté until fragrant and the onion turns translucent (about 5 minutes).

3. Prepare the Tomato Cream Sauce

• Stir in the tomato passata and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Gradually add the heavy cream and low-fat milk, stirring well to combine.
• Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Add Parmesan and Seasonings

• Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly until it melts into the sauce.
• Sprinkle in the dried basil and chicken or vegetable stock powder (or crumbled bouillon cube).
• Season with finely ground pepper and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy tomato sauce.
• Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce’s flavors.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Divide the pasta into individual servings.
• For a final touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of dried basil on top.

Nutritional Highlights

This pasta dish isn’t just rich and creamy; it also has nutritional benefits:

Nutrient	Source	Benefit
Protein	Parmesan, Milk	Builds and repairs tissues.
Carbohydrates	Spaghetti	Provides energy to fuel your day.
Calcium	Parmesan, Cream	Strengthens bones and teeth.
Antioxidants	Tomato Passata	Promotes heart health and immunity.
Healthy Fats	Butter, Cream	Provides sustained energy and satiety.

Tips for Perfecting Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

1. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti al dente to ensure it holds up well when tossed with the sauce.
3. Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Customize with Add-Ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, cooked chicken, or shrimp for a protein-packed variation.
5. Go Herb Crazy: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, parsley, or thyme for added flavor.

FAQs About Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream and low-fat milk. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

3. Can I prepare this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the consistency.

4. What if I don’t have tomato passata?

Tomato passata can be substituted with canned crushed tomatoes or even fresh blended tomatoes for a similar taste and texture.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable stock powder or a crumbled vegetable bouillon cube instead of chicken stock.

Why This Dish Should Be Your Next Comfort Meal

Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce is more than just food; it’s an experience. The rich, creamy sauce perfectly coats each strand of pasta, delivering comfort and indulgence in every bite. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s the ultimate go-to meal for any occasion.

Whether it’s a quiet dinner for one, a family meal, or an impromptu dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Try It Today!

Ready to treat yourself to a plate of creamy, comforting pasta? Gather your ingredients and start cooking. Once you try this Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce, it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Share it with your family and friends—they’ll love it just as much as you do!

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