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Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta - Easy Pasta Recipes for Dinner

There’s something about a bowl of creamy tomato pasta that feels like a warm hug on a busy night. We all have those days where even opening a jar of sauce feels like a big win. This recipe is your cheat code: quick, simple, and full of cozy flavor. If you’ve got pasta, cream, and a can of tomatoes hiding somewhere in your kitchen, you’re halfway there. I remember the first time I threw this together. I was juggling emails, laundry, and a very hungry dog, and somehow, magic still happened in the kitchen. The sauce clings to every bite of pasta, buttery and rich without being too heavy. It’s the kind of dish that turns a 'meh' evening into a full-on comfort fest. One forkful and you'll swear it took way more effort than it really did. This recipe checks all the right boxes: it’s fast, uses pantry staples, and satisfies the deepest pasta cravings. Perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table now, not in three hours. Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dinners
Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: easy dinner recipes, easy food recipes, easy meal prep recipes, easy pasta recipes, easy recipes for dinner, quick and easy recipes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Elena

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine, letting it simmer for about 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, stirring well to coat every piece with the creamy sauce.
  8. Serve hot, sprinkled with Parmesan and fresh herbs if using.