15-Minute Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce

I love making this 15-minute pasta with creamy tomato sauce when I need something fast but still comforting and satisfying. It is one of those meals I turn to on busy evenings when I want big flavor without spending much time in the kitchen. The sauce is rich, silky, and perfectly balanced between tangy tomatoes and smooth cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how quickly this pasta comes together. While the pasta boils, I prepare the sauce, and everything is ready almost at the same time. It feels efficient and stress-free.

I also enjoy how comforting and versatile it is. The creamy tomato sauce coats every piece of pasta beautifully, and I can easily customize it with herbs, vegetables, or protein depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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)

Directions

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Next, I stir in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. I let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

I season with salt and black pepper to taste. Then I add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, I stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the consistency I like.

Finally, I mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil if I have it on hand. I serve it immediately while it is warm and creamy.

Servings and timing

I find that this recipe makes about 3 to 4 servings.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for extra texture and flavor. When I want to add protein, I stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.

For a lighter version, I replace part of the heavy cream with half-and-half. If I want a deeper flavor, I add a spoonful of tomato paste or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

I do not usually freeze this dish because cream-based sauces can change texture after thawing, but it is best enjoyed fresh anyway.

FAQs

Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

I can substitute crushed tomatoes, though the sauce may be slightly chunkier. If needed, I blend it briefly for a smoother texture.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

I reserve some pasta water and add it gradually until the sauce reaches the consistency I prefer. The starchy water helps keep it smooth.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

I can use a plant-based cream alternative and dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free. The flavor will change slightly but can still be delicious.

What type of pasta works best?

I like using penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti, but almost any pasta shape works well because the creamy sauce coats everything nicely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, I reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

I find this 15-minute pasta with creamy tomato sauce to be one of the easiest and most reliable comfort meals I can make. It is simple, creamy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever I crave a quick homemade dish. I keep coming back to this recipe because it never disappoints.

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