15-Minute Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce
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A quick and comforting pasta dish tossed in a rich, silky creamy tomato sauce that comes together in just 15 minutes.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Stir in tomato sauce, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Stir in reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add sautéed vegetables or cooked protein for variety.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of milk or water when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg