Creamy Tomato Chickpea Pasta

Name: Creamy Tomato Chickpea Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Inspirations

I absolutely love finding new ways to enjoy pasta, and this Creamy Tomato Chickpea Pasta has become one of my favorites! With its rich, creamy sauce and the heartiness of chickpeas, it is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of flavors is delightful, and I find that the creamy tomato sauce clings beautifully to each piece of pasta, making every bite a treat. Trust me, this dish is a winner in my kitchen!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:07:22.242Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Tomato Chickpea Pasta, I was surprised by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. Using canned tomatoes and chickpeas not only cuts down on prep time, but they also create a rich and hearty sauce that is simply irresistible. I love how the chickpeas add a nutty texture, making it more filling than a typical tomato pasta.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to let the sauce simmer a bit longer to enhance the flavors, allowing the tomatoes to break down completely. I often finish it off with a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving, which brightens up the dish beautifully. It's a simple addition that takes it to another level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy tomato sauce that’s full of flavor
Chickpeas add protein and heartiness to the dish
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Perfect Pasta Cooking

To achieve the best texture for the pasta, make sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and doesn't become gummy. Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking, and taste a piece a minute or two before the package's recommended cooking time to check for doneness. You want it al dente, with a slight bite.

Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to help adjust its consistency and help it cling to the pasta better. If you find your sauce is too thick, adding a splash of this water can bring it to the perfect creamy consistency.

Chickpeas: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Chickpeas not only add a hearty texture but are also packed with protein and fiber, making this dish both filling and nutritious. If you're looking to increase the protein even further, consider using high-protein pasta varieties made from lentils or chickpeas instead of traditional wheat pasta. This can elevate the nutritional profile without compromising flavor.

If you're in a hurry or want to save time, you can use canned chickpeas, which are a great convenience. Rinse them well to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid before adding them to the sauce. Alternatively, you can cook dried chickpeas ahead of time and freeze them for use in this recipe or other dishes.

Cream Sauce Tips

When incorporating the heavy cream into the sauce, reducing the heat to low is crucial to prevent it from curdling. You'll want to stir continuously until the cream is well mixed, creating a beautifully glossy and rich sauce. For a bit of extra flavor, you could also add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of red pepper flakes at this stage.

If you're looking for a lighter dairy option, you might substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, but it can still create a deliciously creamy pasta dish. For vegan adjustments, simply omit the cream entirely or use a cashew cream for a nutty twist.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start putting this dish together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy tomato chickpea pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Saute the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, chickpeas, and dried basil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Make it Creamy

Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and mix until well combined. Let it cook for an additional few minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat all the pasta evenly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your creamy tomato chickpea pasta with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish is also great for meal prep and can easily be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato Chickpea Pasta is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to restore its creamy-like texture before mixing in the freshly cooked pasta.

If you want to freeze it, I recommend storing the pasta and sauce separately. The sauce can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat it gently in a skillet while cooking fresh pasta for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. For extra veggies, consider adding spinach or kale right before serving. They wilt down beautifully in the warm sauce and enhance the nutritional value without overwhelming the dish.

For a fun twist, try serving this pasta in a bowl with crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping. Pair it with a light salad to balance the richness of the creamy sauce. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors nicely without adding heaviness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ Is there a dairy-free version for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce for an extra kick.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini would be great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic.