Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and creamy pasta experience with these 20 mouthwatering tomato-based recipes! With fresh herbs adding a burst of freshness, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From classic combinations like garlic butter and basil to bold flavors like sun-dried tomatoes and spicy arrabbiata sauce, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of creamy tomato pasta recipes, each featuring a unique blend of herbs and spices. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a fork and let’s dive into the world of pasta perfection!
Garlic Butter Tomato Basil Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the simplicity of fresh tomatoes with the richness of garlic butter and sweet basil, all wrapped up in a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 large cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1 can (14.5 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the tomato sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with a velvety sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Tomato Pasta
A classic Italian recipe with a spicy kick, this arrabbiata pasta is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in parsley and Parmesan cheese. Combine reserved pasta water with the tomato sauce to achieve desired consistency.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with the spicy arrabbiata sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Pasta
A deliciously simple yet flavorful pasta dish that highlights the sweet and tangy flavors of roasted cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 pint (280g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted cherry tomatoes, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil (if using). Toss gently to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tomato Spinach Feta Pasta Bake
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the tanginess of feta cheese and the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Burst Tomato and Garlic Spaghetti
Add a burst of flavor to your spaghetti with this simple and delicious recipe. Fresh tomatoes and garlic come together to create a sauce that’s both tangy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 large tomatoes, cored and diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to break down.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the tomato mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Cream Sauce with Penne
Add a rich and comforting twist to your pasta with this simple tomato cream sauce recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss cooked penne pasta with the tomato cream sauce.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, and vegetable broth. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
4. Remove from heat; stir in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tomato Mushroom Alfredo Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines tender mushrooms, juicy tomatoes, and a velvety alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom-tomato sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Tomato Tortellini Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, and tender tortellini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini pasta
– 1 cup freshly made or store-bought basil pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through and slightly thickened.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in the reserved pasta cooking liquid and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked tortellini pasta and pesto-tomato sauce. Toss to combine, adding more cooking liquid if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Olive and Caper Linguine
A flavorful and light pasta dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brininess of olives and capers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes release their juices and the flavors meld together.
4. Toss cooked linguine with the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Vodka Sauce Rigatoni
A rich and creamy sauce made with fresh tomatoes, vodka, and Parmesan cheese, served over al dente rigatoni pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rigatoni pasta
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, vodka, heavy cream, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Avocado Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of tomatoes and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 large ripe avocados, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the tomato-avocado mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tomato Bacon Carbonara Pasta
This recipe combines the creamy richness of carbonara with the smoky sweetness of tomatoes and crispy bacon, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, bacon, and tomato mixture to the egg mixture. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Lentil Bolognese Pasta
A twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, this recipe combines the comfort of lentils with the rich flavors of tomato sauce and savory bolognese. This plant-based take on a classic is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the bolognese sauce; toss well.
6. Top with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Goat Cheese Orzo Pasta
A light and refreshing pasta dish that combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the sweetness of tomatoes and the nutty flavor of orzo.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in the goat cheese crumbles and cook for an additional minute, until melted and creamy.
4. Combine the cooked orzo pasta with the tomato-goat cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Artichoke Heart Pasta
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of artichoke hearts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 can (14 oz.) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-artichoke mixture in a large serving bowl.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Quickly cook up a flavorful pasta dish packed with juicy sausage, sweet peppers, and tangy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the sliced peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage, and tomato-pepper mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Tomato Coconut Milk Curry Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of coconut milk with the tanginess of tomatoes and spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its blend of familiar flavors and international twists, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-coconut milk sauce, and salt/pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Walnut Pesto Fusilli
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, walnuts, and basil in a creamy pesto sauce, served over fusilli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto (or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto over medium-low heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in the walnut halves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-walnut mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 creamy tomato pasta recipes, each featuring fresh herbs as a key ingredient. From classic garlic butter and basil to sun-dried tomato and spicy arrabbiata options, there’s something for every taste. Try your hand at roasted cherry tomatoes and ricotta, or go bold with vodka sauce rigatoni. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a quick weeknight dinner, or a show-stopping pasta salad, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
