Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Tomato Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Homestyle Favorites

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce for a quick weeknight dinner. The lightness of the angel hair combined with the luscious, creamy sauce truly elevates this dish. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, it’s sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. I always make sure to use fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes to enhance the flavors. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it'll become a go-to in your collection of quick and satisfying meals.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:01:36.051Z

Making this Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a labor of love that never goes unnoticed at my dinner table. One of my favorite parts of the dish is how quickly everything comes together. I remember the first time I used fresh basil instead of dried, and the flavor transformation was nothing short of magical. It’s incredible how just one ingredient can elevate an entire dish.

As I experiment with different variations, adding a touch of grated Parmesan at the end has become my secret weapon. It adds an extra layer of creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes. This quick yet decadent dish is perfect for those nights when I want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that comforts the soul
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Fresh and vibrant flavors with every bite

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires a little attention to ensure it reaches that ideal al dente texture. As this type of pasta cooks faster than others, be sure to check for doneness about two minutes before the package instructions indicate. The pasta should be tender yet slightly firm when bitten. Remember to keep the water boiling throughout the cooking process for even cooking.

After draining the pasta, give it a quick rinse under cold water if you're not mixing it with the sauce immediately. This helps to stop the cooking process and avoid clumping. If you're looking to save some time, you can cook the pasta while you prepare the sauce — just be sure to reserve a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin out your sauce later.

Perfecting the Creamy Tomato Sauce

The sauce in this recipe thrives on high-quality ingredients, particularly fresh tomatoes and heavy cream. If ripe tomatoes are out of season, using good canned tomatoes can yield excellent results. When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it; you want it fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Stirring frequently will help achieve that perfect balance.

As you incorporate the heavy cream, do so slowly and at medium-low heat to achieve that rich, velvety consistency without curdling. If you find your sauce is too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while also blending the pasta and sauce beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

8 oz angel hair pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Enjoy your meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.

Make it Creamy

Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat well with the creamy tomato sauce. Serve warm.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra depth, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat. Fresh herbs can also be adjusted based on what's available, so feel free to experiment.

Variations and Additions

This dish serves as a fantastic base for many variations. Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritional boost. Grilled chicken or shrimp can also make for a hearty upgrade. If spice is what you're after, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the creamy tomato sauce to a new level.

Another fun twist is to add a dollop of pesto on top just before serving for an herbaceous flavor that complements the creaminess well. For a savory optional touch, consider topping your dish with crispy bacon or prosciutto for additional texture and taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're meal-prepping, both the sauce and pasta can be made in advance. Cook the sauce, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The angel hair pasta can also be cooked ahead of time; just toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating.

When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and add some fresh pasta, allowing it to warm through. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a bit of heavy cream or reserved pasta water to regain the desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before adding the cooked pasta.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce is completely vegetarian-friendly!