Go Back

Creamy Tomato Bow Tie Pasta

This dish balances the acidity of fresh cherry tomatoes against the richness of heavy cream and ricotta for a sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. It comes together in under 30 minutes and makes for a filling meal that reheats surprisingly well.
Print Pin
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

~6 Servings

  • ~1.5 lbs bow tie pasta farfalle
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 5 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • ~1 1/2 cups reserved pasta water
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt plus more for pasta water

Instructions

  • Boil salted water and cook pasta 2 minutes less than package directions for al dente. Reserve 1 1/2 cups pasta water before draining.
  • Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add cherry tomatoes and cook 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until blistered and burst. Press stubborn ones with spoon.
  • Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until paste darkens.
  • Lower heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and 3/4 cup reserved pasta water.
  • Stir in parmesan, ricotta, and salt. Simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
  • Add cooked pasta to skillet and toss to coat. Cook 2-3 minutes to finish cooking pasta in sauce.
  • Add more pasta water as needed to reach silky consistency.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below & let me know!