Creamy Tomato Pasta

Creamy Tomato Pasta

This creamy tomato pasta is a simple, comforting Italian-inspired dish with a rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite protein for a more filling option.
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
 
 

For the Pasta:
  • 350 g rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 tsp sugar optional
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 100 ml heavy cream
  • 50 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Simmer the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Add Cream and Cheese: Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss for 1–2 minutes until evenly coated and heated through.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta, top with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 18gFat: 22g

Notes

  • Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
  • Reheat with a splash of water or milk to loosen sauce
  • Add protein like chicken or shrimp for higher protein meals
  • Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated separately
  • Garnish fresh each time for best flavor

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Success Fitness

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading