Description
Creamy Tomato Spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a rich, velvety tomato sauce. Enhanced with cream and aromatic herbs, this simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti (or other long pasta)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Canned crushed tomatoes (or passata)
- Heavy cream (or double cream)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning or fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning or basil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Top with grated parmesan and extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- To make it spicy, include chili flakes or hot sauce in the sauce.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg