This creamy, saucy, and irresistible pasta takes just 15 minutes and only 3 main ingredients to make. Serve it with a crisp salad and a glass of red wine for a complete, comforting dinner.
What comes to mind when you think of comfort food? For me, it’s a generous twirl of saucy pasta on a plate, finished with a shower of Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves to brighten the flavors. Add a glass of red wine and good company, and dinner feels complete.
Pasta is a favorite comfort food in many households. Paired with a big salad, it becomes a balanced and satisfying meal. While I enjoy elaborate sauces made from scratch, busy weeknights call for quicker solutions. This recipe strikes a lovely balance: rich and comforting, yet fast and simple.
If you enjoy making sauce from scratch, that’s wonderful — but this recipe is for nights when time is short. With just three ingredients and about 10 minutes of active work, you can have a creamy tomato pasta on the table. Choose your preferred jarred or homemade pasta sauce, warm it gently, and stir in light cream cheese to create a silky, rich sauce. Cook the angel hair, toss everything together, and you’re done.
This dish is ideal for school nights, weeknights, or anytime you want a quick, comforting meal. It’s also very flexible: add herbs, spices, or extras to suit your taste. I like to finish with fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon — the citrus brightens and enhances the tomato notes beautifully.
3-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Angel Hair Pasta
Ingredients
- 9 oz. refrigerated angel hair pasta
- 1 1/2 cups pasta sauce
- 3 oz. light cream cheese, softened
For serving, optional:
- 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
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Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair and cook according to the package directions, typically 1–2 minutes for refrigerated pasta.
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While the pasta cooks, pour the pasta sauce into a small pot. Heat to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Stir in the softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Drain the pasta and toss it with the warm sauce. Divide among plates and, if desired, top with Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve with lemon wedges to brighten the tomato flavor.
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Enjoy!
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