As a passionate food blogger and a seasoned chef, I’ve always believed that the most memorable dishes are often the simplest ones. Today, I’m excited to share a classic Italian recipe that embodies this philosophy – Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta. Get ready to savor the comforting richness of velvety tomato sauce combined with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
Tomato cream Sauce Pasta Recipe
Tomato cream Sauce Pasta
Ingredients
- 16 oz. penne pasta prepare al dente
- 4 oz. prosciutto thinly sliced and cut into strips or pieces
- 1 tbsp. butter unsalted
- ½ medium-sized onion diced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes with dried basil 28 oz.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yoghurt
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp. kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- grated parmesan cheese Additional, for serving
- Pasta with different kinds of sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta and be sure that it’s cooked al dente.
- Prepare the sauce by preheating a large pan over medium flame.
- Cook the prosciutto by regularly tossing it on the pan for about 10 minutes until it’s all crispy. Transfer to a plate and set aside until needed.
- Melt butter into the pan and sauté the onions for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know that it’s already cooked when you see it looks translucent.
- Put the crushed tomatoes and let it simmer. Pour the Greek yoghurt, peas, parmesan cheese and stir well. Add kosher salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
- Again, bring it to a gentle simmer and don’t bring it to a boil. Boiling the mixture will curdle the yoghurt.
- Toss in the pasta in order to heat it through. Top it with additional parmesan cheese before serving.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Slow Cooker Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Start by sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan with a bit of olive oil until they become translucent. This step helps enhance the flavors of your sauce.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the sauce simmer and develop its rich flavors for 6-8 hours. You can even prepare this in the morning before work and come home to a delightful aroma.
- Prepare the Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta in boiling salted water until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water. This water can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chicken or vegetable broth, and grated Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the slow cooker with the creamy tomato sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is coated evenly.
- Serve: Dish up the Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta on plates or in bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips for making Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta
Cooking Tips
- Sauté Aromatics: Don’t rush the sautéing process. Cooking the onions and garlic until they’re translucent adds a depth of flavor to your sauce.
- Low and Slow: When using the slow cooker, opt for the low setting to allow the sauce to develop its full flavor potential. Patience pays off in the form of a rich, aromatic sauce.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to absorb some sauce when combined. Remember to reserve some pasta water for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
- Balancing Act: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the salt, pepper, and cream to reach the perfect balance of flavors.
- Fresh Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color to your dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve your pasta with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread or breadsticks make for a delightful accompaniment. Their crunchy texture pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- Wine Pairing: Pair this pasta with a light and crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Noir to complement the flavors.
- Veggie Medley: For added freshness and nutrients, consider adding steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted bell peppers to your dish.
- Variety of Cheese: Offer a selection of grated Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or even some shredded mozzarella for your guests to sprinkle on top.
Frequently Asked Questions of Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta
- Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?Absolutely! Substitute chicken or vegetable broth with a high-quality vegetable broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian version.
- How can I make it spicier? If you crave more heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce during the slow cooking process. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free?Yes, choose gluten-free pasta, and ensure that the chicken or vegetable broth and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? To maintain the creamy texture, reheat the leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- How should I store any remaining Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
As we conclude our culinary journey with this Tomato Cream Sauce Pasta, I hope you’ve savored the flavors and found inspiration in this Italian classic. Join our food-loving community by subscribing for more delightful recipes and cooking tips. Share this recipe with loved ones, and let’s continue exploring the world of food together. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Until next time, happy cooking!
Experience the culinary brilliance of Chef John at Food And Meal Restaurant. With over 20 years of global expertise, My innovative creations and unwavering dedication to cooking have earned me a well-deserved reputation. My passion for gastronomy is showcased in every dish, combining fresh, local ingredients with harmonious flavors and captivating presentations. My ability to tell a story through my food reflects my profound understanding of culture and emotion.