Creamy Tomato Pasta with Parmesan

Creamy Tomato Pasta with Parmesan is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta with a smooth, flavorful sauce. The natural acidity of tomatoes is balanced by the richness of cream and the savory taste of Parmesan cheese, creating an easy meal for lunch or dinner.

Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe uses simple ingredients and requires very little preparation. Serve it on its own or pair it with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta, such as penne or fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it is al dente. The pasta should be tender but still slightly firm in the center.

Before draining, reserve approximately half a cup of the cooking water. The starch in this liquid can help adjust the sauce and make it cling more effectively to the pasta. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for three to four minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds. Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Add the oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about eight minutes. This cooking time helps develop the tomato flavor and reduces excess liquid.

Lower the heat before adding the heavy cream. Stir slowly until the sauce has an even pink color and a smooth consistency. Do not allow it to boil rapidly, as excessive heat may affect the cream’s texture.

Add the grated Parmesan gradually, stirring continuously until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

Place the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss gently for one or two minutes, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy tomato sauce.

Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Add more Parmesan for a richer flavor or a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.

Tips for the Best Results

Use freshly grated Parmesan whenever possible. Pre-shredded cheese may contain ingredients that prevent it from melting smoothly.

Keep the sauce over low heat after adding the cream and cheese. This produces a creamy consistency without causing separation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta immediately with additional Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley. Garlic bread is perfect for collecting the remaining sauce, while a simple salad provides a refreshing contrast.

Creamy Tomato Pasta with Parmesan is quick, versatile, and satisfying. Its combination of tomatoes, herbs, cream, and cheese makes it a dependable recipe for busy evenings or relaxed family meals.