Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe
If you’re craving something cozy, luscious, and perfect for a weeknight, this Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe is about to be your new go-to. Picture a classic tomato sauce, only silkier and more indulgent, thanks to the dreamy addition of cream cheese. Every bite wraps you in warmth and flavor, making even ordinary pasta feel restaurant-worthy. This comforting sauce is simple enough for busy nights and special enough for guests—it truly does it all!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great sauce starts with a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients, and this Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe is no exception. Each component brings something important to the table, from depth of flavor to creamy texture or vibrant color. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love it:
- Olive Oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing, enhancing the flavor of both onion and garlic.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle savory aroma that’s irresistible when cooked down.
- Garlic: Brings a wonderful punch and helps build layers of flavor right from the start.
- Crushed Tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, offering brightness and body to every spoonful.
- Dried Basil: Infuses a classic Italian herb note you can’t skip.
- Dried Oregano: Deepens the savory profile and gives a distinctive Mediterranean flair.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds gentle heat—use as much or as little as you love!
- Salt: Brings out the existing flavors and perfectly seasons the sauce.
- Black Pepper: Offers just the right touch of warmth and sharpness.
- Cream Cheese: The magic ingredient—melts in to create a luxuriously creamy sauce.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): Brings extra umami and a salty, nutty finish.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Adds freshness, color, and a final elevated touch to your plate.
How to Make Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion turns soft and translucent, coaxing out its sweet and mellow side. Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds—it should fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma!
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, making sure the herbs and seasonings are evenly distributed. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for 10–15 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld and the sauce gains its signature depth, all while your kitchen fills with Italian-American goodness.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and add in your cream cheese cubes. Stir constantly as the cream cheese melts into the tomato mixture. Watch as your sauce transforms right before your eyes—it becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy, giving you a texture that clings beautifully to pasta. If you’d like, now’s the time to sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it melt in for another savory layer!
Step 4: Season and Finish
Give the Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe a taste. Adjust with a little more salt, pepper, or even more herbs if desired. Once you’re happy with the flavors, remove the sauce from heat. Toss it directly with your favorite freshly cooked pasta or spoon it over noodles of your choice.
How to Serve Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Garnish is key for that final pop of freshness! Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over your saucy pasta just before serving. This not only adds vibrant color but also brings a garden-fresh finish that balances the creamy richness of the Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe.
Side Dishes
For a meal that feels complete, pair your saucy pasta with sides like crusty garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. These options help soak up extra sauce and round out the flavors without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation! Pour the sauce into a large serving bowl and twirl your pasta into elegant nests on top, or serve individually plated portions for a restaurant-style experience. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for visual flair and extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftover Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying quick and satisfying lunches during the week—just add freshly cooked pasta!
Freezing
This sauce freezes beautifully! Transfer the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. For easy portioning, consider freezing in individual servings so you can thaw only what you need.
Reheating
When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring often. If needed, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen up the consistency. You can also use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep things perfectly creamy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Absolutely! If tomatoes are in season, use about 2 pounds of ripe, chopped tomatoes. Simmer a bit longer to let them break down, and consider briefly blending the sauce for a smoother texture.
Is this Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the base recipe is completely vegetarian. If you want to keep it that way, simply skip any meat-based add-ins or use vegetarian Parmesan to make it totally meat-free.
Can I make this sauce without cream cheese?
The cream cheese is key for the signature creaminess in this recipe, but if you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cream cheese substitute for a similar effect. Sour cream or mascarpone can also be used for a fun twist.
What pastas pair best with this sauce?
Hearty shapes like penne, rigatoni, and rotini grab onto the creamy sauce, but you can absolutely use spaghetti or fettuccine. The Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe will make any noodle shine!
Can I add protein to the sauce?
Certainly! Toss in cooked ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a complete, hearty meal. Chickpeas or white beans also taste fantastic for a vegetarian boost.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, and you’ll be amazed by how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself after a long day, give it a try and let each creamy, savory bite bring you joy. Happy cooking!
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Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Tomato Pasta Sauce with Cream Cheese recipe. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Tomato Pasta Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additions:
- 4 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes, herbs, seasoning. Simmer for 10–15 mins.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add Parmesan if desired.
- Serve: Pour over cooked pasta. Garnish and enjoy!
Notes
- This sauce goes well with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked ground turkey or sausage.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (sauce only)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
