Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Tomato Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz angel hair pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I absolutely adore this Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce. Combining the delicate strands of angel hair with a rich, velvety sauce creates a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that transforms a regular weeknight dinner into something truly special. Whether I'm cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish always impresses. Plus, the creamy tomato sauce is quick to whip up, making it a perfect option for busy days when I'm short on time yet crave something delicious.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:53:38.703Z

When crafting this delicious Angel Hair Pasta, I focused on creating a sauce that balances creaminess with the tang of tomatoes. I’ve found that using high-quality canned tomatoes significantly elevates the sauce's flavor, making it richer and more satisfying. This simple choice makes a noticeable difference over using fresh tomatoes.

Another tip that works wonders is letting the pasta cook only until al dente before mixing it with the sauce. This allows the angel hair to absorb some of the saucy goodness, enhancing the dish's overall taste and texture. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta
Easy to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner
The fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor contrast

      

Mastering the Creamy Tomato Sauce

The creamy tomato sauce in this recipe is its star feature, offering a perfect balance of acidity from the tomatoes and richness from the cream. To avoid curdling, ensure that the heat is low when you add the heavy cream; this allows it to combine smoothly with the tomatoes. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Visual cues include a change in color to a beautiful pink hue, and the sauce should become glossy and cohesive.

If you're looking for a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a bit of heat. Alternatively, substituting some of the heavy cream with ricotta can create an even creamier texture while also lending a fresh, mildly tangy flavor. Just remember to blend it well to achieve that silky finish. Overall, the versatility of the sauce allows for personal touches depending on your flavor preferences.

Cooking the Perfect Angel Hair Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires a bit of attention since it has a delicate structure. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The general rule of thumb is to use about 4-6 quarts of water for every pound of pasta. This ensures even cooking and prevents stickiness. Cook the pasta for about 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to prevent clumping. You'll know it’s ready when it's al dente with a slight bite but not mushy.

When draining the pasta, avoid rinsing it with cold water as that can wash away the starch that helps the sauce adhere. Instead, save a cup of the starchy pasta water; this liquid can be a lifesaver in adjusting the consistency of your sauce if it appears too thick. If you're cooking for a crowd, this recipe easily doubles—just ensure your pot size and sauce pan are adequate to accommodate the increased volume without overcrowding.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Garnishing your dish not only enhances its visual appeal but also elevates its flavor. Fresh basil leaves, added just before serving, bring a refreshing brightness to the creamy sauce, creating contrast with its richness. If basil isn't available, fresh parsley or even arugula can be delightful substitutes. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty note and an additional layer of flavor.

For a complete meal, consider serving this pasta alongside a crisp side salad or garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate. I also love adding a side of grilled vegetables for color and texture. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, reheating gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to revive the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce:

Ingredients

12 oz angel hair pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy tomato sauce and perfectly cook the pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta cooking water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.

Add Cream

Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious meal with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions with the garlic or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Fresh parsley can also be used as a substitute for basil if needed.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of crushed tomatoes greatly affects the flavor of your sauce. Opt for whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes if you can find them, as they provide a sweeter, richer taste compared to standard canned tomatoes. This subtle difference can elevate your dish significantly, making each bite more flavorful and delightful.

Using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced or powdered forms ensures a more robust and aromatic taste. When preparing the garlic, be careful not to brown it too much while sautéing, as it can turn bitter. This quick sautéing process should take about a minute, allowing the natural oils to release without overcooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is great for meal prep! You can prepare the tomato sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it over low heat, then add the cooked angel hair pasta. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, often tasting even better after a day.

If you're considering freezing the sauce, ensure it's completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months; when you're ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned previously. Cooking the pasta fresh right before serving will ensure the dish maintains its optimal texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while angel hair is recommended, feel free to use spaghetti or linguine.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the cheese for a vegan option.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.