Creamy Tomato Pasta Dinner (Printable)
Al dente pasta with tomato-cream sauce, Parmesan and basil. A comforting option for weeknight Italian meals.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 ounces penne or fusilli
→ Sauce
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
06 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
10 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
13 - Fresh basil leaves, torn
14 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
# How To Make It:
01 - Prepare pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water, following package directions for al dente texture. Drain thoroughly, preserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until aromatic.
03 - Incorporate crushed tomatoes and tomato paste into skillet. Add dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer mixture for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld.
04 - Lower heat to a gentle simmer. Blend in heavy cream and grated Parmesan, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency.
05 - Add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat. Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water, adding gradually until desired consistency is achieved.
06 - Serve immediately while hot. Top each portion with torn fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
# Tips from dashanddishes:
01 -
- Uses basic pantry ingredients you likely already have
- Ready in just thirty minutes for busy weeknights or last-minute guests
- Classic Italian flavors with a creamy twist feel cozy and satisfying
- Versatile for friends with dietary needs like gluten-free or dairy-free options
02 -
- Comfort food that feels fancy but is simple enough for everyday
- High in protein and carbs for a filling meal
- Perfect base for customizing with veggies or vegan swaps
03 -
- Always salt your pasta water like the sea for deeper flavor in the dish. Toast your oregano lightly in the olive oil before adding tomatoes it unlocks hidden aroma. Reserve just enough pasta water start with a few tablespoons to avoid thinning sauce too much