Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Pasta
This simple, comforting dish is the ultimate time-saver for busy days. With just three ingredients, it creates a rich, flavorful meal that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners or even a casual gathering, this creamy tomato pasta requires minimal effort and delivers maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (e.g., penne, rotini, or farfalle)
- 1 jar (24 oz) of tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup of heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- In your slow cooker, mix the cooked pasta, tomato pasta sauce, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta absorbs the sauce and everything is evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Once heated through and creamy, serve immediately. Pair with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Variations & Tips
-
Add Protein:
Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier meal. -
Boost Veggies:
Toss in fresh spinach, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition. -
Spicy Twist:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or use a spicy tomato sauce for a kick of heat. -
Dairy-Free Option:
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a vegan-friendly version. -
Cheesy Upgrade:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato pasta is perfect on its own, but you can make it a full meal with these accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: Use it to soak up the extra sauce.
- Green Salad: Toss a simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy side.
FAQs
1. Can I use uncooked pasta in this recipe?
While cooked pasta is recommended for the best texture, you can use uncooked pasta. Add an extra 1-2 cups of liquid (water or broth) to the slow cooker and ensure the pasta is fully submerged before cooking.
2. What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce well.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or any dairy-free cream alternative.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh. If you need to prepare it ahead, keep the pasta and sauce separate, then combine and heat just before serving.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based pasta sauces don’t freeze well, as the texture can change. If you want to freeze, leave out the cream and add it when reheating.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with endless customization options to fit your taste. Enjoy!