Name: Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound fusilli bucati pasta; 1 tablespoon salt (plus more to season the sauce); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 small yellow onion (very finely diced (optional)); 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 can tomato paste ((6-ounces)); 1-1/4 cups heavy cream; 1/3 cup chicken stock (or chicken broth); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes ((optional)); 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan (plus more for serving)

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If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, delicious meal that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than this Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe. Bursting with flavor and creamy goodness, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. The delightful combination of tomato paste, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta. Let’s dive into the details!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that everyone can get behind. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. The use of fusilli bucati gives it a unique twist, offering ridges that hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes—what’s not to love? This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also customizable, making it a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Shopping List

To make this delicious Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound (16 oz) fusilli bucati pasta
1 tablespoon salt, plus more to season the sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 small yellow onion, very finely diced (optional)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 can (6-ounces) tomato paste
1-1/4 cups heavy cream
1/3 cup chicken stock or chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving

Before You Start: Equipment

Make sure you have the following equipment ready to go:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Skillet for making the sauce
Colander for draining pasta
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater for Parmesan cheese

Directions: Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the fusilli bucati pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using onion, add the finely diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste to the skillet, stirring it into the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly and deepen in flavor.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings with more salt if necessary.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Substitutions by Diet

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some easy substitutions you can make:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta in place of fusilli bucati.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Vegetarian: Replace chicken stock with vegetable broth.
Vegan: Use vegan cream and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while making your Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe:

Don’t skip reserving pasta water! It’s essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
Make sure to sauté the tomato paste well to enhance its flavor.
Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust the seasoning.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts and integrates better into the sauce than pre-grated cheese.

Save It for Later

This Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of pasta cooking water to restore creaminess. If you want to freeze it, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fusilli bucati works wonderfully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you enjoy or have on hand, such as penne or rigatoni.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For those who love a kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce at the end for an extra punch!

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve to prevent it from becoming mushy.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You could also add grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for added nutrition and variety.

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Bring It to the Table

There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy pasta dish, and this Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe hits all the right notes. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or a crowd, this recipe is versatile enough to please all palates. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!