Creamy Tomato Pasta

Whip up this creamy tomato pasta for a quick and comforting dinner! This rich pasta dish combines tangy diced tomatoes, smooth cream cheese, and Parmesan for a perfectly creamy sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Made with pantry staples and ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Customize with your favorite proteins or veggies, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. Perfect for pasta lovers searching for a simple and flavorful meal idea!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 oz. softened cream cheese (about ¼ cup)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz. thin spaghetti (see notes for substitutions)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients and Pasta Water: Measure all ingredients before starting. Begin boiling salted water for the spaghetti.
2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Tomato Base: Add diced tomatoes (with their juices), oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate Cream Cheese and Parmesan: Lower the heat to low. Cut the cream cheese into smaller pieces and whisk it into the sauce until smooth. Then whisk in half of the Parmesan cheese.
5. Thicken Sauce: Let the sauce simmer uncovered on low heat while cooking the pasta. Stir occasionally and cover if the sauce thickens to your preference.
6. Cook and Combine Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and stir it into the sauce.
7. Serve: Dish the pasta and serve with the remaining Parmesan cheese on the side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and Parmesan makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like diced tomatoes, pasta, and spices.

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Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps the pasta hold its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work great with this creamy tomato sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How long can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

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Serving

• Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for garnish.
• Serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a simple yet elegant dinner.

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Suggestions

• Double the recipe for meal prep and freeze portions for later.
• For extra depth, add a splash of white wine to the sauce while simmering.
• Toss in some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.