Description
A rich and creamy tomato pasta sauce made with crushed tomatoes and cream cheese, enhanced with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs. This easy stovetop sauce is perfect for elevating your favorite pasta dishes with a velvety texture and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Creamy Components
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
Garnish
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Heat and Sauté Onion: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent, allowing the onion to release its sweetness and soften.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to develop its aroma without burning.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy texture.
- Add Parmesan and Optional Cream: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream or milk if desired. Continue to simmer the sauce for another 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the warm sauce over your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for an added touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- This sauce pairs beautifully with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti noodles.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked sausage, chicken, or sautéed vegetables.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze leftover sauce for up to 2 months for convenient future meals.
