Creamy Tomato and Feta Pasta Recipe
Creamy Tomato and Feta Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling the pasta)
- Skillet or frying pan (for making the sauce)
- Stirring spoon
- Colander (for draining the pasta)
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (any kind you prefer, but penne or spaghetti are great choices)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
Notes
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Feta Pasta
Now that we’ve gathered everything, let’s get started! This is such an easy recipe to make, and I love how quickly it comes together.Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions. Usually, it takes about 9-11 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked and tender, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a little pasta water—it’s great for adjusting the sauce later if needed!Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it smells fragrant. Be sure to stir it often so it doesn’t burn! Once the garlic is ready, add the canned diced tomatoes (along with the juice) to the pan and let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes. The tomatoes will start to break down, creating a lovely, rich sauce.Step 3: Add the Cream and Feta
Now it’s time to add the creamy goodness! Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine it with the tomatoes. The sauce will start to thicken and become beautifully creamy. Then, crumble in the feta cheese and let it melt into the sauce. You’ll notice the sauce getting even richer and more flavorful! Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice) to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat.Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your drained pasta to the sauce and toss everything together. If the sauce is a little too thick, you can add a bit of that pasta water to help thin it out and coat the pasta perfectly. Give it a good stir, and it’s ready to serve! Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you want, and enjoy this comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results
- Cook your pasta right: Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente (slightly firm) so it doesn’t get soggy in the sauce.
- Creamy sauce adjustments: Feel free to use more or less cream depending on how rich you want the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, whole milk works fine too.
- Veggie add-ins: If you have little ones who need some extra veggies, try adding spinach or zucchini to the sauce. They’ll add nutrition without compromising flavor.
- Add a bit of heat: If your family likes a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a bit of chili powder into the sauce.
- Feta alternatives: Goat cheese or ricotta can be used instead of feta if that’s what you prefer.