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Kids Pasta: Creamy Tomato Pasta Recipe Kids Love - Easy, Cozy, and Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini, shells, or macaroni)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional but recommended)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (see alternatives below)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (or more to thin as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (to balance acidity)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (skip if your kids are sensitive)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Optional add-ins: cooked peas, diced cooked chicken, mini meatballs, or sautéed zucchini

Method
 

  1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Sauté aromatics: In a wide skillet, warm olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add tomatoes and season: Pour in the tomato sauce. Stir in sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes to mellow the acidity.
  4. Make it creamy: Lower the heat. Stir in heavy cream and milk. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce looks silky.
  5. Cheese time: Sprinkle in Parmesan and stir until melted. If too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen.
  6. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss until every piece is coated. If using peas, chicken, or other add-ins, fold them in now.
  7. Taste and adjust: Add a pinch of salt if needed. For extra creaminess, stir in another tablespoon of cream or a bit more Parmesan.
  8. Serve: Top with a little more Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley if your kids like it. Serve warm.