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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

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This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is made with a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream. It’s simple, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Creamy Tomato Garlic Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 (14-oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for extra richness)
For Garnish (Optional)
  • Fresh basil, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Black pepper or chili flakes

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Tomato Garlic Sauce
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. (Add red pepper flakes if using.)
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Add the butter and stir until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Combine & Serve
  1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.

Notes

  • Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter alternative.
  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein.
  • Use fresh cherry tomatoes (sautéed) instead of canned tomatoes for a fresher flavor.