30-Minute Creamy Tomato Pasta: A Weeknight Dinner Savior

Craving a comforting and satisfying meal but short on time? Look no further than this 30-Minute Creamy Tomato Pasta! This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy solution without sacrificing flavor.

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

The magic lies in its simplicity. This creamy tomato pasta features just a handful of ingredients that come together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for hurried weeknights or a last-minute dinner party. The combination of smooth, creamy tomato sauce with al dente pasta is a classic for a reason, and this recipe delivers it perfectly.

Why Choose This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love this 30-Minute Creamy Tomato Pasta:

• Incredibly quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or nights when you’re short on time.
• Family-friendly: The creamy tomato sauce is a crowd-pleaser, sure to be enjoyed by adults and children alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite protein (chicken, shrimp, etc.) or vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, etc.) to personalize the dish.
• Simple ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples and readily available ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or parsley)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional additions: Pinch of red pepper flakes, cooked chicken or shrimp

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Build the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream (or milk), and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine and serve: Once the pasta is cooked, add it directly to the sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy tomato sauce. Add the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached (a light and creamy sauce that clings to the pasta).
5. Finishing touches: Stir in the chopped basil (or parsley) and any optional additions like red pepper flakes, cooked chicken, or shrimp.
6. Serve immediately: Plate the creamy tomato pasta and top with additional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy!

Tips:

• For a richer sauce, use full-fat heavy cream.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
• Feel free to substitute different types of pasta like farfalle, rigatoni, or fusilli.
• This recipe is a great base for customization. Add your favorite vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms.

Additional Information:

• Nutritional Information: Per serving (without optional additions), this recipe is estimated to contain approximately 500 calories, 25 grams of fat, 40 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of protein. You can use a free online nutritional calculator for a more precise breakdown based on the specific ingredients you use.
• Variations and Substitutions:
  • Lighter option: Substitute milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Dietary needs: This recipe can be adapted for vegetarians or vegans by using plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
  • Pasta variety: Feel free to use any type of dried pasta you prefer, such as farfalle, rigatoni, or fusilli.