Creamy Tomato Spaghetti – Easy Vegetarian Pasta Recipe

Craving something rich, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious? This Creamy Tomato Spaghetti is everything you love about pasta night—classic tomato flavor elevated with a smooth, velvety creaminess that clings beautifully to every strand of spaghetti.

Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or date-night in, this one-pot-friendly dish is ready in under 30 minutes and made with pantry staples. Think of it as the perfect middle ground between marinara and Alfredo—rich, tangy, and absolutely comforting.

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Ingredients Overview

Let’s explore the simple yet powerful ingredients that make this creamy tomato sauce irresistible.

Spaghetti

Spaghetti’s long, thin strands are ideal for coating in smooth sauces. Feel free to swap in linguine, bucatini, or gluten-free pasta.

Tomato Sauce or Crushed Tomatoes

A good-quality canned tomato product is key here. Use:

• Tomato passata for a smooth texture

• Crushed tomatoes for a rustic, chunky sauce

• Marinara sauce for added herbs and depth

Heavy Cream

This transforms the acidic tomato base into a mellow, silky sauce. Adds richness and balance.

Garlic

Sautéed garlic creates the aromatic backbone of the sauce. Use fresh cloves for the best flavor.

Onion (Optional)

Finely diced onion adds natural sweetness and depth to the base—especially great if using canned tomatoes.

Olive Oil & Butter

Used to sauté aromatics and enhance flavor richness.

Parmesan Cheese

Melts into the sauce for umami and body. Always grate fresh if you can—it melts more smoothly.

Seasonings

• Salt & black pepper

• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• Red pepper flakes for a gentle kick

• Fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make creamy tomato spaghetti like a pro—simple steps with gourmet results.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package directions.

• Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

• Add 4 minced garlic cloves (and ½ diced onion if using). Sauté until fragrant and soft, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomato Base

• Stir in 1½ cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes).

• Add ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

• Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced and flavorful.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

• Lower the heat and stir in ¾ cup heavy cream.

• Simmer another 2–3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

• Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a looser, silkier sauce.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta

• Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss gently with tongs to coat evenly.

• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve

• Plate immediately and top with extra cheese, cracked pepper, and fresh herbs.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips

• Reserve your pasta water: It helps bind and emulsify the sauce.

• Don’t overheat the cream: Keep the sauce on low heat after adding cream to avoid curdling.

• Use quality tomatoes: Choose San Marzano or good crushed tomatoes for full flavor.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Creamy Tomato Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• Creamy Vodka Tomato Pasta: Add a splash of vodka before the cream, and let it reduce.

• Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: Stir in torn fresh basil at the end for garden-fresh flavor.

• Meat Lover’s Version: Brown Italian sausage or ground beef before adding tomato sauce.

Substitutions

• No cream? Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.

• Vegan? Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy.

• No Parmesan? Use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free grated alternative.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Creamy tomato spaghetti is incredibly versatile and satisfying on its own—but it also pairs beautifully with:

Serve With:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• Roasted vegetables or a green salad

• Grilled or pan-seared chicken for protein

• A glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon

Best For:

• Weeknight family dinners

• Date night at home

• Meatless Monday

• Easy meal prep – the sauce keeps well for 3 days in the fridge

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This pasta is rich and hearty, but with a few tweaks, it can fit into most balanced eating plans.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: ~450–550

• Protein: 15–18g

• Carbohydrates: 45–55g

• Fat: 20–28g

• Fiber: 3–5g

Health Tips:

• Use whole wheat spaghetti for extra fiber

• Lighten the sauce with half-and-half or Greek yogurt

• Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrients

• Add chickpeas or lentils for vegetarian protein

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of sauce?

Yes! Use crushed tomatoes for texture or tomato passata for a smooth finish. Simmer longer to reduce.

2. Can I make it without cream?

Yes. Substitute with milk and a butter-flour roux, or use cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

3. Does it store well?

Yes. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.

4. Can I freeze the sauce?

The sauce alone (without pasta) freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat slowly to prevent separation.

5. Is it vegetarian?

Yes—just make sure your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly, or use a plant-based cheese.

6. Can I add protein?

Absolutely. Try grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even white beans.

7. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free spaghetti and double-check that your Parmesan is gluten-free certified.

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