This Creamy Spicy Tomato Pasta is a flavorful delight! With rich tomato sauce, cream, and just the right amount of spice, it’s a big hit at the dinner table.
You know what’s great? It’s ready in no time! I often turn to this dish when I need something quick but still want to impress my family. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using penne for its ability to hold sauce in every bite. However, spaghetti or fusilli work great too. If you need a gluten-free option, try chickpea or brown rice pasta.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor, but you can use any cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil or sunflower oil will also work well if you’re looking for a neutral taste.
Red Chili Flakes: These bring the heat! If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount or swap them for a pinch of black pepper. For more spice, add fresh chili or cayenne pepper.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that coconut cream will change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano work wonderfully as a substitute. Nutritional yeast can be a great vegan alternative, providing a cheesy flavor.
How Can You Make the Sauce Extra Flavorful?
Creating a rich and vibrant sauce takes a bit of love. First, sauté your onions until they are sweet and translucent. This forms the base of your flavor!
- Don’t rush the sautéing! Let the onions caramelize slightly; it adds depth.
- After adding garlic and spices, let them cook until fragrant—this step is vital for that aromatic kick.
- Let the crushed tomatoes simmer long enough to thicken and blend with the spices, about 10 minutes will do.
- Soon as you add the cream, keep the heat low to avoid curdling and ensure a silky finish.
Remember, taste as you go! Adjust seasonings to make the sauce just right for you.
How to Make Creamy Spicy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or spaghetti)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy spicy tomato pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, and another 10 minutes to let the flavors merge into a delicious sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, but save a little bit of the pasta water for later if needed!
2. Sautéing the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally. This helps bring out the sweetness of the onion.
3. Adding Flavor:
Next, add the minced garlic, red chili flakes, and smoked paprika to the skillet with the onions. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, keeping an eye on the garlic so it doesn’t burn!
4. Making the Sauce:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Patience is key here; it develops great flavor!
5. Creamy Goodness:
Now, reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything blends nicely and becomes creamy.
6. Finishing Touches:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it’s melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste—you want it just right!
7. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing thoroughly so that each piece is coated in that creamy spicy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to your desired consistency.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this delicious pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves or parsley. Enjoy your creamy, spicy tomato pasta and dive into the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option and adds a nice nuttiness to the dish. For gluten-free, try quinoa or chickpea pasta, which will hold up well in the sauce!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, definitely! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the red chili flakes or omit them entirely. For extra heat, you can add more chili flakes or even some chopped fresh chili peppers.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. You can also skip the cheese altogether!
