Tomato Soup Pasta

Imagine the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes and garlic filling your kitchen as you prepare a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Tomato Soup Pasta is a simple Italian delight that combines ease and indulgence, transforming basic ingredients into a creamy, flavorful meal.

As the pasta absorbs the savory tomato sauce, magic happens.

Let’s bring this cozy creation to life and enjoy a heartwarming dinner together.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large pot
• 1 medium saucepan
• 1 wooden spoon
• 1 colander
• 1 chef’s knife
• 1 cutting board

Ingredients

• 200 grams pasta of choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400 grams canned tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Tomato Soup Pasta, you can follow this timeline:

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes):
   • Spend a few minutes reading through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
   • Gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients.
2. Prep Work (5 minutes):
   • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Open and have ready the canned tomatoes and broth.
3. Boiling Pasta (10 minutes):
   • Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
   • While waiting for the water to boil, you can start on the sauce (next step).
4. Cooking the Sauce (20 minutes, overlaps with pasta boiling):
   • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (approximately 5 minutes).
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
   • Pour in canned tomatoes and broth, add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break down the tomatoes.
   • Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Cook Pasta (per package instructions, approximately 8-10 minutes):
   • Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta using a colander and return it to the pot.
6. Combining and Serving (5 minutes):
   • Pour the tomato soup mixture over the drained pasta and mix well.
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully combined.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Recipe Instructions

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil over high heat.

Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Pour in canned tomatoes and broth, then add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.

Use a wooden spoon to break down the tomatoes as they cook.

Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes.

Drain the pasta using a colander and return it to the pot.

Pour the tomato soup mixture over the pasta and mix well.

Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully combined.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Serving Tips

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment that adds a crispy, buttery texture to complement the creamy pasta.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a rejuvenating contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables add a healthy and colorful side to the meal.
• Grilled Chicken: Adding a protein like grilled chicken makes for a more substantial and satisfying dish.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of light red wine, such as Chianti, enhances the Italian flavors of the pasta.

Storage

Store leftover tomato soup pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Freezing

To freeze Tomato Soup Pasta, cool it completely.

Then transfer to airtight containers.

Label with the date.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Tomato Soup Pasta, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Soup Pasta offers a delightful twist on classic Italian flavors.

It’s a quick and satisfying dish that combines the comforting essence of tomato soup with the hearty texture of pasta.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a cozy meal for one, this recipe is a versatile option that can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Enjoy the rich, creamy sauce and the aromatic blend of herbs, topped with fresh basil for a burst of freshness.

Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach, for an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Fresh Tomatoes for Canned Tomatoes?

Yes, substitute fresh tomatoes by blanching, peeling, and dicing 400 grams. Simmer with a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Guarantee consistency matches canned tomatoes by reducing moisture content. Adjust seasoning to compensate for flavor differences.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

You should choose pasta with a high surface area like rigatoni or penne. Their ridges capture sauce efficiently. Cook the pasta to al dente for ideal texture, ensuring it holds the tomato soup mixture effectively.

Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative to Heavy Cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream (blend 1 cup soaked cashews with 3/4 cup water). Both options maintain creaminess without dairy. Adjust the viscosity using xanthan gum if a thicker consistency is desired.

How Can I Make This Dish More Spicy?

To intensify the heat, incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño during the sautéing process. For advanced heat distribution, infuse olive oil with chili beforehand for a uniform spice profile.

Can I Add Protein Like Chicken or Shrimp to the Pasta?

You can add protein by incorporating 200 grams of cooked, diced chicken or shrimp. Sauté the protein separately, then integrate it with the pasta and sauce. Confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.