Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a simple, satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with a rich and velvety tomato-cream sauce. Infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of cheese, this one-pan favorite is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or meal prep.
Ingredients List
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
¼ cup tomato paste
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Add cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 410
Carbs: 45g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 20g
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables. Great with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Seasonal Relevance
A year-round pasta favorite that works especially well for cozy fall or winter nights, or quick summer dinners with fresh herbs.
Conclusion
Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a fast, flavorful comfort meal the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and rich taste, this creamy tomato pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, last-minute guests, or make-ahead lunches. Easy, cheesy, and delicious every time.
Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes410
kcalA creamy, comforting pasta dish made with bowtie pasta and a rich tomato sauce. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
¼ cup tomato paste
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Add cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use penne or rotini if bowtie pasta isn’t available.
Add grilled chicken or veggies for a fuller meal.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
FAQs
Q1: Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini work great.
Q2: Can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. Make sure the pasta is egg-free.
Q3: Will other pasta shapes work?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or shells all pair well with creamy tomato sauce.
