Print

How to Make Tomato Sauce Pasta, cream free – Easy and Delicious

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cream-Free Tomato Rigatoni Pasta is a simple, bold dish made with pantry staples and no cream. A quick, flavorful weeknight meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato passata

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano or basil

  • ¼½ cup reserved pasta water

  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

  • Grated parmesan (optional)

Instructions

  • Boil pasta in salted water. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion 4–5 minutes, add garlic, and cook 30 seconds.

  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.

  • Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.

  • Toss in pasta and a splash of pasta water. Stir until well coated.

  • Garnish with herbs and parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Add sautéed vegetables or protein to customize.

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.

  • Freeze leftover sauce for future meals.