Creamy Tomato Pasta (Ready in 10 Minutes – Perfect Weeknight Dinner)

Introduction :

Need a comforting meal that’s ready in minutes? This creamy tomato pasta is your answer. It’s rich, flavorful, and comes together in just 10 minutes — no fancy ingredients, no complicated steps. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this is the kind of go-to dinner recipe that never fails.

Ingredients :

• 200g (7 oz) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or canned crushed tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or full-fat milk for lighter version)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: grated Parmesan, fresh basil, chili flakes

Instructions :

1. Boil pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in tomato sauce and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cream and cook for another minute. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Toss in the pasta and mix until well coated.
6. Serve hot. Top with Parmesan, basil, or chili flakes if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Pasta

• Fast: From prep to plate in just 10 minutes.
• Comforting: Creamy, rich, and satisfying.
• Flexible: Use any pasta shape, add protein, or sneak in some veggies.
• Budget-friendly: Basic pantry ingredients, no fuss.

This is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl — warm, simple, and endlessly customizable.

Flavor Variations to Try

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, tuna, or shrimp.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Go cheesy: Mix in cream cheese or extra Parmesan for a deeper flavor.
• Fresh twist: Add baby spinach or chopped cherry tomatoes right before serving.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this pasta with:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted veggies on the side (zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli)

Quick Weeknight Pasta Tip

When you’re really short on time, prepping your creamy tomato pasta sauce ahead of time can be a game-changer. Simply double or triple the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When dinner time comes, boil your pasta, reheat the sauce, and you’ve got a comforting meal in under 10 minutes. This is the kind of recipe that saves you on hectic evenings — no stress, no takeout.

For extra convenience, freeze individual portions of the sauce. Just thaw overnight and warm it gently on the stove when ready. It’s the perfect way to meal-prep your favorite creamy tomato pasta for the week ahead.

Bonus Tip: Save Time, Double the Sauce

Want to meal prep? Double the sauce, refrigerate it for up to 3 days, and reheat with fresh pasta any time. You’ll thank yourself later on a busy night.

Looking for another quick sauce idea? Try our 5-Minute Garlic Butter Sauce — buttery, rich, and ready in no time.

It’s always a good idea to keep creamy tomato pasta ingredients on hand.

FAQ – Creamy Tomato Pasta

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes! Whole milk works fine, but the sauce will be a bit thinner. Add a bit of grated cheese to help thicken it.

Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Penne, fusilli, and spaghetti all work great. Just pick what you love or already have on hand.

Want another take on creamy tomato pasta? Here’s a delicious version from BBC Good Food with a touch of herbs and cheese.