Pasta is a beloved comfort food, and nothing quite compares to the heartiness of a classic pasta al Pomodoro, also known as pasta with tomato sauce. One simple twist to elevate this dish is to add a creamy twist! This creamy tomato sauce combines the vibrant taste of tomatoes with a rich and velvety texture, making for an irresistible meal. The complexity of flavors will surprise you, and the best part? It takes just 20 minutes to whip up!

Imagine twirling your fork through luscious strands of pasta enveloped in a dreamy pink sauce—it’s a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also delights your taste buds. If you’re ready to transform your dinner routine with this creamy tomato sauce, let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can Italian-style diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tbsp dried basil leaves
• ¾ tsp white sugar
• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the base

   Begin by heating the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3 to 5 minutes. This step creates a flavorful base for your sauce.

2. Add spices and tomatoes

   Next, stir in the dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. Then, add the undrained can of Italian-style diced tomatoes. Bring the pot to a boil and let it cook for about 5 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated, concentrating the flavors.

3. Make it creamy

   Once the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and butter until everything is well combined. Return the saucepan to low heat, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for another 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and creates a rich, creamy texture.

Recipe Tips

• For an extra creamy finish, reserve a couple of tablespoons of the pasta cooking water and stir it in when combining the pasta with the sauce.
• If you prefer a smooth sauce, finely mince the onion instead of dicing it.
• Feel free to adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred sauce consistency. A longer cook time will yield a thicker sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy tomato sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta. Simply cook the pasta according to package instructions, then combine it with the sauce. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese to elevate your dish. Serve alongside a crusty slice of bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, milk can be used as a lighter alternative. Just ensure you let it simmer longer to achieve your desired thickness, and consider draining the tomatoes before adding them.

What type of cream works best for this sauce?

Heavy cream or whipping cream works beautifully. You can also use sour cream; just dilute a couple of tablespoons with water to reach the required volume.

Is it possible to freeze the creamy tomato sauce?

Absolutely! Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last up to two months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it and add a splash of water while reheating to restore its creamy texture.

How should I serve this sauce?

Cook your preferred pasta variety, then mix it with the creamy sauce. Top it off with fresh herbs and cheese for an extra touch. A piece of crusty bread on the side always makes a pleasant addition!

Can I add other vegetables or proteins to the sauce?

Certainly! Feel free to include cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add more nutrition. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can complement this creamy sauce nicely.