Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish featuring a velvety tomato sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of spice. Made with simple ingredients and ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy comfort meal. Serve it on its own or with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a complete dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Rich & Creamy – A smooth, luscious tomato-based sauce with a hint of garlic.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an effortless meal.
• Customizable – Add protein, veggies, or spice to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for a comforting dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce

• Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add Cream & Cheese

• Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2 minutes.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
• If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

4. Combine & Serve

• Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
• Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
• Vegan Option – Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
• Wine-Infused – Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding tomatoes for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Blend fresh tomatoes for a smoother texture or cook them down for a chunkier sauce.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best, but any pasta shape will do.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Store the sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make it thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer or add more Parmesan cheese to thicken it.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk, or Greek yogurt can be used, but the sauce may be less creamy.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure to add the cream on low heat and stir constantly.

What proteins pair well with this pasta?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu work great.

Can I make this into a baked pasta dish?

Yes! Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until golden.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! You can reduce the spice for a milder version that kids will love.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s packed with rich flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a simple weeknight dinner or dress it up for a special occasion, this creamy, garlicky pasta will always be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a comforting homemade meal in just 30 minutes!

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