Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta – A Simple & Healthy Dinner Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a delicious and comforting easy creamy tomato pasta recipe? This dish is the perfect combination of rich tomato flavor, velvety sauce, and tender pasta. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal, a satisfying simple pasta for one, or a pasta dinner recipe healthy, this creamy tomato pasta is a must-try.

Made with simple pantry staples like diced tomatoes, garlic, cream, and parmesan, this recipe is both budget-friendly and packed with flavor. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for quick pasta dishes simple enough for any night of the week. You can also customize it by adding extra veggies like spinach or turning it into a tomato and pesto pasta for a fresh and herby twist.

This dish is creamy, comforting, and versatile. You can enjoy it as a one-pot creamy tomato pasta for easy cleanup or pair it with a side of garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this creamy tomato garlic pasta will become a staple in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

There are so many reasons why this creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a perfect meal for any occasion:

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Healthy yet indulgent – The creamy sauce balances well with the acidity of tomatoes.
• Great for meal prep – Reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Versatile – Works well with different pasta shapes, add-ins, and proteins.
• Perfect for all occasions – Whether you need a simple pasta for one or a dish for a family dinner, this recipe fits the bill.

If you love pasta sauce with diced tomatoes, this creamy, garlicky version is sure to be one of your new favorites!

Ingredients for Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

To make this one-pot creamy tomato pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or any favorite)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach (optional, for added greens)
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
• ¼ cup chopped basil or parsley (for garnish)

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start, gather these kitchen tools:

• Large pot – For cooking the pasta.
• Skillet or saucepan – To prepare the creamy tomato sauce.
• Strainer – To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce.
• Cheese grater – For freshly grating parmesan cheese.

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. If using, add the fresh spinach and cook for another minute until wilted.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with extra parmesan cheese and enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

• Use high-quality diced tomatoes – They provide the best base for the sauce.
• Save pasta water – Helps to loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy.
• Don’t overcook the sauce – Simmer just enough to blend flavors without thickening too much.
• Use fresh parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well in creamy sauces.

Variations and Substitutions

This pasta dinner recipe healthy can be easily customized! Here are a few variations:

• Tomato and Pesto Pasta – Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto for a herby twist.
• Protein-Packed Version – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Dairy-Free Option – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
• Extra Veggies – Mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers work great.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping pasta water – It helps to create a smooth, restaurant-quality sauce.
• Using too much cream – A little goes a long way; too much can overpower the tomato flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta – Al dente pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This creamy tomato garlic pasta stores well and makes for great leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.

What to Serve with Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Pair this one-pot creamy tomato pasta with:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing complements the richness.
• Roasted vegetables – Such as asparagus or zucchini for extra nutrients.

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FAQs About Creamy Tomato Pasta

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
A: Yes! Use 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes, but let them cook down longer for a rich sauce.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Use coconut milk instead of cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Q: What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
A: Penne, fettuccine, and tortellini all work well.

Conclusion

This easy creamy tomato pasta is a delicious, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick pasta dish simple, a pasta dinner recipe healthy, or a one-pot creamy tomato pasta that’s easy to make and full of flavor, this dish is for you. With a rich, creamy tomato sauce and tender pasta, every bite is pure comfort food bliss. Try it today and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both satisfying and effortless!

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