Quick Creamy Tomato Pasta Dinner

Name: Quick Creamy Tomato Pasta Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes; 100ml heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Recipes

I love whipping up a quick and satisfying meal, and this Quick Creamy Tomato Pasta Dinner is one of my favorites. It’s incredibly simple to prepare and full of flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a delicious and creamy sauce that transforms ordinary pasta into something special. Plus, it takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing me to enjoy a tasty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:57:36.429Z

When I first tried making creamy tomato pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The lushness of the cream combined with the bright acidity of the tomatoes creates a beautifully balanced dish that feels gourmet. I decided to use fresh tomatoes for a vibrant flavor, but canned tomatoes work just as well. A secret tip I learned is to reserve a bit of the pasta water; it helps to bind the sauce and ensures a silky finish.

This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. One night, I added spinach and mushrooms, and it elevated the meal even further. I love how I can switch it up depending on what I have on hand. It's the perfect dish for impressing guests or a quick family dinner!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops each strand of pasta perfectly
Fresh tomato flavor that bursts with every bite
Quick preparation ideal for a weeknight dinner

Mastering the Pasta

Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. When boiling the pasta, keep an eye on it and taste a strand a minute or two before the package instructions indicate it is done. You want it to be firm to the bite with a slight chew. Overcooked pasta can make the final dish mushy, compromising the overall texture of your creamy tomato sauce.

Using sea salt in the boiling water enhances the pasta's natural flavor. This salty water improves seasoning from the start. Remember to reserve that one cup of pasta water before draining; it’s a secret ingredient that can bring your sauce together beautifully, giving it a luscious, silky finish when mixed into the final dish.

Creating the Sauce

When preparing the sauce, the key is to sauté the garlic just until it turns golden and fragrant—this usually takes about a minute. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic can impart an acrid taste to your sauce. After adding the tomatoes, simmer for about five minutes until they soften and release their juices. This step helps intensify the flavors and creates a robust base for your creamy addition.

Incorporating the heavy cream is where the magic happens. Stir it in until combined and watch as the sauce transforms into a velvety coating that clings beautifully to the pasta. Adjust the thickness by gradually adding your reserved pasta water; this technique allows you precise control over your sauce’s consistency—less water for a thicker sauce, or more for a lighter one.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful pasta dinner.

Ingredients

200g pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
100ml heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect creamy tomato pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Add the drained pasta, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious quick creamy tomato pasta!

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grated cheese or your favorite vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Creamy Tomato Pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty garlic bread, adding an extra element to your meal. For a heartier dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

If you have some cooked chicken or shrimp on hand, they make excellent additions. Toss them in with the pasta after mixing in the sauce for a complete and satisfying dish. Just ensure they are heated through before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or some reserved pasta water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure an even temperature without scorching the sauce.

If you plan to make this meal in advance, consider preparing the sauce but storing it separately from the pasta. Combine just before serving for the best texture. Alternatively, you can also freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months; just remember to defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes work wonderfully, just be sure to peel and chop them before adding.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any pasta can work, but I recommend using penne or spaghetti for the best texture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with cooked pasta when you're ready to serve.