Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta

Rich, creamy, and bursting with tomato flavor, this pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food! With a simple tomato-cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

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Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

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Step 3: Add the Cream and Cheese

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through for 2–3 minutes.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

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Step 4: Combine with Pasta

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

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Notes

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with a plant-based alternative.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

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Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Sodium: 620mg