If you’re craving pure comfort and crave-worthy elegance in a single bite, The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor is your new weeknight hero. Imagine perfectly al dente pasta tangled in a luxurious sauce made from silky San Marzano tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a generous swirl of good butter—finished with plenty of Parmesan and a shower of fresh basil. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for guests but comes together simply enough for a cozy night in, delivering a luscious, craveable experience every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor is how simple yet transformative each ingredient is. Every item plays a starring role in creating that legendary silky sauce and unforgettable flavor, with a handful of pantry staples coming together like magic on your plate.
- Spaghetti or fettuccine (12 ounces): Choose a shape that holds on to the sauce—spaghetti for a classic slurp or fettuccine for even more luscious coating.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds fruity depth and helps bloom the garlic without letting it burn.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Garlic is the foundation of the sauce, infusing every bite with gentle savory warmth—don’t skimp on fresh cloves here.
- Whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes (1 28-ounce can): These tomatoes are the key to a naturally sweet, tangy, and vibrant sauce—look for DOP-certified cans for best results.
- Unsalted butter, cubed (6 tablespoons): The star player for richness—adding it in cubes gives the sauce that signature, glossy finish.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Just a hint brings a gentle heat and complexity—go easy or bold, depending on your mood.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing acidity and bringing out all the tomato flavors; taste as you season!
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup plus more for serving): Nutty, salty Parm acts as the perfect finishing touch—stir a little in and always sprinkle more on top.
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): Torn basil makes everything brighter—add just before serving for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
How to Make The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rollicking boil—make it taste almost like the sea. Drop in your spaghetti or fettuccine and cook until it’s beautifully al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water; it’s the secret to getting your sauce to just the right consistency. After draining, set the noodles aside while you focus on the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, grab your largest skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of good olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, keeping a close eye so it doesn’t brown—just 1 to 2 minutes until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlic aroma. This is step one in building layers of flavor for The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes
Pour in the whole San Marzano tomatoes, including all their juices. Take a spoon or potato masher and gently crush them right in the skillet. Let the sauce bubble at a gentle simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every so often, until it reduces slightly and thickens. This step deepens the flavor and coaxes out the tomatoes’ sweetness.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Here comes the magic! Lower the heat and add your cubed butter, bit by bit, stirring until fully melted after each addition. The butter transforms the sauce, lending it that unforgettable rich, velvety gloss that is the trademark of The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor. Season with red pepper flakes (if you love a little heat), salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add your cooked pasta straight into the skillet, tossing until every strand is coated in that luscious sauce. If things look a little thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect silkiness. Stir in the Parmesan, toss again, and taste for seasoning. Serve immediately—preferably in warm bowls—topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
How to Serve The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor
Garnishes
Always finish each bowl with an extra generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a handful of torn fresh basil leaves. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a crack of black pepper adds even more complexity. The colors and aromas will make every serving shine.
Side Dishes
This dreamy pasta is unbelievably satisfying on its own, but it also plays well with crisp garlic bread, a simple green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or roasted broccolini. For a heartier spread, pair it with a platter of marinated olives, or plate with a creamy burrata salad to double down on decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor twirled high in shallow bowls for that restaurant feel, or spoon it into a big family-style dish for everyone to dig in. For special occasions, try serving atop a bed of creamy ricotta, or as a base for garlicky shrimp. Leftover sauce? Pour over baked gnocchi or use as an incredible pizza base!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next-day lunch even more exciting. Enjoy within three days for the best texture and taste.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze the sauce by itself for up to three months—simply defrost in the fridge, then toss with fresh-cooked pasta. Avoid freezing the combined pasta and sauce, as noodles can get mushy.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water. Warm over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through and creamy again. Add a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and basil before serving for that just-cooked charm.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes if I don’t have San Marzano?
You can use regular canned whole peeled tomatoes in a pinch—just know that San Marzanos have a sweeter, less acidic profile that gives The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor its signature taste. Add a pinch of sugar to balance if using a different variety.
Is there a dairy-free option for the butter?
Yes! Substitute your favorite plant-based butter for a dairy-free version, or swirl in a high-quality olive oil instead. The texture will be a bit different, but you’ll still get a lovely richness in your sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten free?
Absolutely—just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep in mind that some gluten-free noodles cook faster, so check for doneness a bit early and don’t forget to reserve some of that pasta water for the sauce.
What protein can I add to make it a main meal?
For a more filling dish, top The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor with seared shrimp, grilled chicken, or even a bit of Italian sausage (if not vegetarian). Toss everything together just before serving for best results.
How do I get a super smooth sauce?
If you like an ultra-silky finish, simply blend the tomato sauce with an immersion blender before adding the butter. This creates an exceptionally velvety base that coats each strand of pasta like a dream.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those recipes you’ll reach for any time you want comfort, elegance, and unbelievable flavor all in one dish. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself, The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor is always a crowd-pleaser. Grab your ingredients, pour a glass of wine, and see just how simple and stunning homemade pasta can be!
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The Best Tomato Butter Pasta Recipe for Rich, Velvety Flavor Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and velvety flavors of this Best Tomato Butter Pasta, a classic Italian dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create a creamy and luscious sauce that perfectly coats each strand of pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add tomatoes, simmer for 10–15 minutes. Stir in butter until glossy. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed. Stir in Parmesan.
- Serve: Top with extra cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone.
- You can blend the sauce for a smoother texture.
- This sauce pairs well with ravioli or gnocchi too.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
