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Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 63 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy and tangy tomato pasta sauce made with tomato passata and smooth cream cheese, flavored with garlic, onion, and basil. Ready in just 10 minutes, this sauce combines a velvety texture with vibrant Italian flavors, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Paste and Sauce

  • 8oz (225 grams) Pasta (long or short pasta will work)
  • 3/4 cup (200 ml) tomato passata (tomato puree)
  • 1/2 cup (120 grams) cream cheese (Philadelphia recommended)
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water

Flavorings

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 2 or 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 brown or white onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to serve

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. A couple of minutes before draining, scoop out approximately 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set aside for later use.
  2. Prepare the Base: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, finely diced onion, and chili flakes if using. Sweat gently for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Cook the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato passata and add the dried (or fresh) basil. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to low and cook the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese, parmesan, and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Mix well until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and emulsified, which should take just seconds. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.
  5. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly, which takes about 10 seconds. Add more reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  6. Serve: Turn off the heat and serve immediately, optionally topping with extra freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!

Notes

  • Using reserved pasta water helps to achieve a silky texture and binds the sauce to the pasta better.
  • Fresh basil can be used instead of dried for a brighter herbal note.
  • This sauce pairs well with any pasta shape, including spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
  • For a richer flavor, use butter instead of olive oil.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your spice preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder sauce.
  • Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to loosen.

Find it online: https://yumrecipesfood.com/tomato-pasta-sauce-with-cream-cheese-recipe/