Creamy Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe

This creamy tomato pasta sauce is a rich and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for pasta dishes, chicken, or even roasted vegetables. Made with simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, diced tomatoes, and a touch of heavy cream, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality sauce in under 30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this homemade sauce combines the tanginess of tomatoes with the richness of cream, creating a smooth, velvety texture that will elevate any dish. Whether you’re preparing a classic spaghetti dish or a creamy tomato chicken, this sauce is versatile and easy to make!

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. Heat olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
2. Stir in dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about one minute until the spices become fragrant.
3. Add the undrained Italian-style diced tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and thicken slightly.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the heavy cream and butter until well combined.
5. Return the saucepan to the heat, reduce the temperature to a simmer, and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips:

• For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce more of the liquid.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend it to your desired texture.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a handful of fresh basil for extra flavor.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Cream alternatives: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of this sauce.
• Tomato options: You can substitute the Italian-style diced tomatoes with crushed tomatoes or whole tomatoes if you prefer a different texture.
• Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to customize the flavor.

FAQs:

1. Can I make this creamy tomato pasta sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat before serving.
2. Can I freeze this creamy tomato pasta sauce? Yes, this sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pasta: Toss this creamy tomato sauce with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
• Chicken: Serve the sauce over grilled or baked chicken breasts for a hearty meal.
• Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted or steamed vegetables for a creamy, flavorful side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This creamy tomato pasta sauce combines the rich flavors of Italian herbs with a velvety smooth cream base, making it the perfect addition to any pasta dish. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this sauce is both quick to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it on pasta, chicken, or vegetables, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!