Save to Pins A luscious pasta dish featuring a silky tomato cream sauce, topped with golden, garlicky bread crumbs for added crunch and flavor.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite for weeknight dinners and is always requested for gatherings due to its rich flavor and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni, salt for pasta water
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 1 small bunch fresh basil chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- Garlic Bread Crumbs: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 cup fresh bread crumbs (from about 2 slices rustic bread), 2 garlic cloves finely minced, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 4 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 8 10 minutes to thicken slightly. Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and simmer for another 2 3 minutes. Mix in the Parmesan and chopped basil. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 4:
- For the garlic bread crumbs Melt butter with 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add bread crumbs and garlic, tossing constantly for 3 5 minutes until golden and crisp. Stir in parsley and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- Toss the drained pasta into the tomato cream sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Mix well to coat.
- Step 6:
- Divide the creamy tomato pasta among plates. Sprinkle generously with garlic bread crumbs and garnish with extra basil.
Save to Pins This dish often brings my family together on busy nights, creating comforting memories around the dinner table.
Notes
Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, medium skillet, wooden spoon, knife and cutting board, colander
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (dairy), and eggs (if using egg pasta). Check labels for vegan or gluten-free substitutions if needed.
Save to Pins This creamy tomato pasta is a perfect blend of comfort and elegance suitable for any occasion.
Questions & Answers
- → How can I achieve a creamy sauce texture?
Use heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to meld with crushed tomatoes during simmering for a velvety texture. Stir often to blend the flavors evenly.
- → What type of pasta works best here?
Penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well thanks to their ridges and tubular shapes, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
- → How do I make the garlic bread crumbs crispy?
Toast fresh bread crumbs with butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and parsley over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden and crunchy.
- → Can I add heat to this dish?
Yes, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce adds a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy tomato base.
- → What garnishes complement this pasta?
Fresh chopped basil and the garlic bread crumbs provide freshness and texture, elevating the overall flavor experience.