Creamy Tomato Pasta!

Creamy Tomato Pasta! is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking with Kian on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $6.77 total, $1.69 per serving

Ingredients

  • 12 oz Penna Pasta (dried, cook al dente)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 small Onion (finely diced)
  • 28 oz Canned Crushed Tomatoes (San Marzano if available)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (full‑fat)
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, adds heat)
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (chopped)
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta

    Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, bring to a rolling boil, then add the penne and cook until al dente, about 9‑10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 100°C

  2. Sauté Aromatics

    While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: 180°C

  3. Add Garlic

    Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: 180°C

  4. Create Tomato Base

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 90°C

  5. Add Cream

    Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and turns a silky pink color.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: 80°C

  6. Season Sauce

    Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: 80°C

  8. Serve

    Plate the creamy tomato pasta, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
55g
Fat
18g
Fiber
4g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 14, 2026

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Creamy Tomato Pasta!

Recipe by Cooking with Kian

A quick and comforting Italian-inspired creamy tomato pasta made with a silky tomato‑cream sauce, fresh basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner and ready in under 45 minutes.

EasyItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
3m
Prep
25m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
38m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.77
Total cost
$1.69
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cook pasta al dente
  • Simmer tomato sauce without burning
  • Add cream off the heat to prevent curdling
  • Toss pasta with sauce while both are hot

Safety Warnings

  • Handle boiling water and hot pasta water carefully to avoid burns
  • Do not let garlic burn; it turns bitter quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Creamy Tomato Pasta in Italian cuisine?

A

Creamy tomato pasta blends the classic Italian tomato sauce with a touch of cream, a technique that became popular in the 20th century as regional cooks added dairy to enrich sauces, especially in northern Italy where cream is abundant.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Creamy Tomato Pasta in Italy?

A

In the north, especially Lombardy, chefs often add butter and cream to tomato sauces, while in the south the sauce remains a simple pomodoro without dairy. Some regions incorporate fresh mozzarella or ricotta for extra richness.

cultural
Q

How is Creamy Tomato Pasta traditionally served in Italy?

A

It is typically served hot, tossed with freshly cooked pasta, and finished with grated Parmigiano‑Reggiano, a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil, and a few fresh basil leaves on top.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Creamy Tomato Pasta traditionally associated with in Italian culture?

A

While not a holiday‑specific dish, creamy tomato pasta is a comforting family meal enjoyed on weeknights and at casual gatherings, especially during cooler months when a warm, rich sauce is welcomed.

cultural
Q

How does Creamy Tomato Pasta fit into the broader Italian cuisine tradition?

A

It exemplifies the Italian principle of simple, high‑quality ingredients—tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and cheese—combined with a modern twist of cream to create a comforting, yet elegant, pasta dish.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Creamy Tomato Pasta versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include high‑quality dried pasta, San Marzano crushed tomatoes, extra‑virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, onion, heavy cream, fresh basil, and Parmigiano‑Reggiano. Acceptable substitutes are any good pasta shape, canned plum tomatoes, half‑and‑half, or a dairy‑free cream alternative, and Pecorino Romano for cheese.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with Creamy Tomato Pasta?

A

Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, garlic‑bread, or a light antipasto platter of olives, cured meats, and mozzarella. A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the sauce.

cultural
Q

What makes Creamy Tomato Pasta special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

The addition of cream creates a velvety texture that balances the acidity of tomatoes, offering a richer mouthfeel while still honoring the bright, fresh flavors of traditional Italian sauces.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Tomato Pasta?

A

Common mistakes include overcooking the pasta, allowing the cream to boil which can cause curdling, and under‑seasoning the sauce. Always add cream off the heat and taste the sauce before combining with pasta.

technical
Q

How do I know when Creamy Tomato Pasta is done cooking?

A

The pasta should be al dente—tender with a slight bite. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon, be slightly thickened, and have a glossy sheen. If the sauce looks watery, reduce it or add a splash of pasta water.

technical
Q

Can I make Creamy Tomato Pasta ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 24 hours ahead, cooled, and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta. Store leftover pasta and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cooking with Kian specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Cooking with Kian focuses on approachable, quick‑prep home cooking with an emphasis on comfort foods, step‑by‑step visual guides, and tips for making restaurant‑style dishes at home.

channel
Q

What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Cooking with Kian?

A

Cooking with Kian promotes simple techniques, high‑quality ingredients, and clear, concise instructions that empower home cooks of all skill levels to create flavorful meals without intimidation.

channel

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