Creamy Tomato Twenty Minute Pasta Simple and Quick Meal

Name: Creamy Tomato Twenty Minute Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme mix); 1 4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; to taste Salt and pepper; for garnish Fresh basil leaves; optional Extra Parmesan for serving

October 20, 2025December 7, 2024 by Lily

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Creamy Tomato Twenty Minute Pasta! This dish is simple, using just a few key ingredients like pasta, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. You can whip it up in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. With tips for creamy sauce and optional add-ins, you’ll have a meal your family loves. Let’s dive into this speedy recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and Italian seasoning creates a rich, comforting sauce that elevates simple pasta.
Versatile: You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, and it can easily be customized with vegetables or proteins.
Impressive Presentation: Garnishing with fresh basil and Parmesan makes this dish look as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

I always start with the right pasta. You can choose penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each type adds its own charm to the dish. Next, I use one tablespoon of olive oil for a rich flavor. Minced garlic is a must; it adds a wonderful aroma. A can of diced tomatoes, undrained, brings juiciness. Finally, heavy cream gives the sauce its creamy texture.

Seasoning and Garnish

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme mix)

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For seasoning, I use Italian seasoning. This mix has basil, oregano, and thyme. It really enhances the tomato flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty taste. Fresh basil leaves are perfect for garnishing. They not only look great but also add fresh flavor.

Optional Ingredients

– Extra Parmesan for serving

– Salt and pepper to taste

You can add extra Parmesan for serving. It makes the dish even richer. I always suggest tasting for salt and pepper. These simple seasonings can make a big difference in flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.

– Add 8 ounces of your favorite pasta.

– Cook it until al dente, as per package instructions.

– Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

– Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Preparing the Tomato Cream Sauce

– In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

– Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute.

– Pour in one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, undrained.

– Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.

Combining Ingredients

– Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

– Let the sauce simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to thicken.

– Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss it well.

– If the sauce is thick, add some reserved pasta water to adjust.

– Finally, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Perfect Pasta

Cooking Pasta Al Dente

To cook pasta al dente, boil salted water. Add your pasta and follow the package time. Al dente means it has a slight bite. This texture makes the pasta hold sauce better. It also adds a nice chew.

Using Reserved Pasta Water

Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of pasta water. This starchy water helps adjust sauce thickness. If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of this water. It will improve the flavor and keep the dish creamy.

Making the Sauce Creamy

Best Practices for Mixing Ingredients

When making the sauce, mix garlic and olive oil first. Then, add diced tomatoes and let them simmer. Next, stir in the heavy cream slowly. This helps blend flavors well. Always mix the sauce off heat before adding cheese.

Tips to Avoid Curdling Cream

To keep your cream smooth, avoid high heat. Stir the sauce gently. Adding cream slowly helps too. If it curdles, try whisking it quickly. This can bring it back together.

Enhancing Flavor

Recommended Seasonings and Herbs

Italian seasoning brings great flavor. It has basil, oregano, and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fresh basil leaves are the best for garnish. They add a bright flavor at the end.

Optional Add-ins and Elevation Ideas

You can elevate your dish in many ways. Try adding cooked chicken or shrimp for protein. Spinach or bell peppers can add color and nutrition. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes for a zingy taste.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality canned tomatoes. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or milk.
Customize Your Pasta: Experiment with different types of pasta. Whole grain or gluten-free options work well and can add a unique flavor and texture.
Leftover Sauce Magic: If you have leftover sauce, it can be used as a base for soups or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Variations

Different Pasta Types

You can change the pasta type to suit your taste. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrition. Gluten-free options are great for those with allergies. You can try penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you new textures.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter dish, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For dairy-free meals, swap cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These options give a creamy feel without dairy.

Flavor Variations

To make your dish heartier, add protein. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu work well. Cook the protein first, then mix it into the sauce. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These add color and nutrients, making your meal more balanced.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store your leftover creamy tomato pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can enjoy it for up to three days in the fridge. Just remember to label the container with the date.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your creamy tomato pasta, follow these tips. Allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. The pasta can last up to three months in the freezer.

To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave for quick defrosting.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to reheat, there are a few great methods. You can use the microwave, stovetop, or oven. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir it often to get even heat. For stovetop, place it in a pan with a splash of water or broth. This keeps it from sticking.

If you want a creamy texture, add a bit more heavy cream or cheese while heating. This will refresh the sauce and keep it delicious.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make creamy tomato pasta vegan, use plant-based cream. You can try coconut cream or cashew cream. For cheese, use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute. These swaps keep the dish rich and creamy without dairy.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Start with about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. You may want to cook them a bit longer to break them down. Remove skins if you prefer a smoother sauce. Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.

What can I serve with creamy tomato pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables adds color and flavor. You can also serve it with a light soup for a complete meal.

This blog post covered delicious creamy tomato pasta, from main ingredients to storage tips. You learned how to choose pasta, create a rich sauce, and add flavor. I offered options for different diets, like vegan or gluten-free. Remember, cooking is fun. Feel free to experiment with ingredients. Use my tips for the best results. With practice, you’ll master this dish and impress your family and friends. Now, it’s time to cook and enjoy your tasty creatio

$- 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained - 1/2 cup heavy cream I always start with the right pasta. You can choose penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each type adds its own charm to the dish. Next, I use one tablespoon of olive oil for a rich flavor. Minced garlic is a must; it adds a wonderful aroma. A can of diced tomatoes, undrained, brings juiciness. Finally, heavy cream gives the sauce its creamy texture. - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme mix) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish For seasoning, I use Italian seasoning. This mix has basil, oregano, and thyme. It really enhances the tomato flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty taste. Fresh basil leaves are perfect for garnishing. They not only look great but also add fresh flavor. - Extra Parmesan for serving - Salt and pepper to taste You can add extra Parmesan for serving. It makes the dish even richer. I always suggest tasting for salt and pepper. These simple seasonings can make a big difference in flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. - Add 8 ounces of your favorite pasta. - Cook it until al dente, as per package instructions. - Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. - Drain the pasta and set it aside. - In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. - Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute. - Pour in one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, undrained. - Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. - Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. - Let the sauce simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to thicken. - Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss it well. - If the sauce is thick, add some reserved pasta water to adjust. - Finally, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Cooking Pasta Al Dente To cook pasta al dente, boil salted water. Add your pasta and follow the package time. Al dente means it has a slight bite. This texture makes the pasta hold sauce better. It also adds a nice chew. Using Reserved Pasta Water Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of pasta water. This starchy water helps adjust sauce thickness. If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of this water. It will improve the flavor and keep the dish creamy. Best Practices for Mixing Ingredients When making the sauce, mix garlic and olive oil first. Then, add diced tomatoes and let them simmer. Next, stir in the heavy cream slowly. This helps blend flavors well. Always mix the sauce off heat before adding cheese. Tips to Avoid Curdling Cream To keep your cream smooth, avoid high heat. Stir the sauce gently. Adding cream slowly helps too. If it curdles, try whisking it quickly. This can bring it back together. Recommended Seasonings and Herbs Italian seasoning brings great flavor. It has basil, oregano, and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fresh basil leaves are the best for garnish. They add a bright flavor at the end. Optional Add-ins and Elevation Ideas You can elevate your dish in many ways. Try adding cooked chicken or shrimp for protein. Spinach or bell peppers can add color and nutrition. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes for a zingy taste. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality canned tomatoes. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or milk. Customize Your Pasta: Experiment with different types of pasta. Whole grain or gluten-free options work well and can add a unique flavor and texture. Leftover Sauce Magic: If you have leftover sauce, it can be used as a base for soups or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. {{image_2}} You can change the pasta type to suit your taste. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrition. Gluten-free options are great for those with allergies. You can try penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you new textures. If you want a lighter dish, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For dairy-free meals, swap cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These options give a creamy feel without dairy. To make your dish heartier, add protein. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu work well. Cook the protein first, then mix it into the sauce. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These add color and nutrients, making your meal more balanced. To store your leftover creamy tomato pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can enjoy it for up to three days in the fridge. Just remember to label the container with the date. If you want to freeze your creamy tomato pasta, follow these tips. Allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. The pasta can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave for quick defrosting. When it's time to reheat, there are a few great methods. You can use the microwave, stovetop, or oven. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir it often to get even heat. For stovetop, place it in a pan with a splash of water or broth. This keeps it from sticking. If you want a creamy texture, add a bit more heavy cream or cheese while heating. This will refresh the sauce and keep it delicious. To make creamy tomato pasta vegan, use plant-based cream. You can try coconut cream or cashew cream. For cheese, use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute. These swaps keep the dish rich and creamy without dairy. Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Start with about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. You may want to cook them a bit longer to break them down. Remove skins if you prefer a smoother sauce. Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables adds color and flavor. You can also serve it with a light soup for a complete meal. This blog post covered delicious creamy tomato pasta, from main ingredients to storage tips. You learned how to choose pasta, create a rich sauce, and add flavor. I offered options for different diets, like vegan or gluten-free. Remember, cooking is fun. Feel free to experiment with ingredients. Use my tips for the best results. With practice, you'll master this dish and impress your family and friends. Now, it’s time to cook and enjoy your tasty creation!$