Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a weeknight dish that absolutely dazzles with both flavor and comfort, look no further than Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. Imagine swirling your fork into tender noodles enveloped in a lusciously creamy tomato sauce, brightened with aromatic garlic, Italian herbs, and a kiss of Parmesan. This pasta is more than the sum of its parts—it’s the kind of cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, delivers true restaurant quality at home, and is simple enough for even the busiest days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta shine. Each one plays a key role, adding depth, texture, or vibrant color, and when combined, they create something magical that’s far more delicious than you’d expect from such a straightforward lineup.
- Pasta (8 oz): Choose spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite shape—these noodles act as the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Use a good extra virgin olive oil for a subtle peppery note and to help sauté the garlic to perfection.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses every bite with irresistible aroma and a gentle, savory punch.
- Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): High-quality canned tomatoes lend rich, tangy depth and beautiful color to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Essential for that silky, dreamy texture that defines true Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Salty, nutty Parmesan amps up the umami and thickens the sauce.
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon): Dried basil provides an herby backbone, evoking classic Italian flavors.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Oregano layers in an earthy, fragrant complexity that rounds out the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season generously to make all the other ingredients pop.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish): Chopped fresh basil adds bright color and freshness right before serving.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes turns up the excitement.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your chosen pasta until just tender, or “al dente.” Drain it well, but don’t forget to save a half cup of the pasta water—this liquid gold can transform your sauce! Set the cooked pasta aside while you work your magic on the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and let it shimmer. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just a minute or two—keep an eye on it, as you want the garlic fragrant and golden but not browned. Nothing builds anticipation for Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta like the smell of garlic sizzling!
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Next, pour the crushed tomatoes into your skillet, mixing in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about five minutes. This short simmer allows the herbs to bloom and the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a vibrant base for our creaminess ahead.
Step 4: Add the Cream
Turn the heat down low, then gently stir in the heavy cream. Watch as your sauce transforms into a velvety, coral-hued delight! Let it simmer another two to three minutes; the sauce should be smooth, glossy, and irresistibly creamy—precisely what you want in Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet. Toss it thoroughly so every noodle gets coated in that luscious sauce. If things look a bit thick, splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your preferred creamy consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
With the sauce just right, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss everything gently. The cheese will melt instantly, further enriching the sauce and binding everything together into a glossy, flavorful bowl of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve your pasta right away, showered with plenty of fresh chopped basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. The steam, fragrance, and colors will make it pretty much impossible to wait before diving in!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Garnishes
The gorgeous finish for Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is all about freshness and color. I love showering mine with roughly chopped fresh basil to echo the flavors in the sauce, and for a little bite, a pinch of red pepper flakes never fails. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, more grated Parmesan or a drizzle of top-notch olive oil is fabulous too.
Side Dishes
Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or add roasted vegetables for extra depth and nutrition. A basket of warm, crusty bread is practically mandatory to help you mop up every last bit of creamy tomato goodness!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta dinner-party special, try serving it in individual pasta bowls, twirled into elegant nests with tongs. Top each mound with a sprig of basil and perhaps some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. For a family-style vibe, heap everything onto a large platter garnished with loads of fresh herbs and set it in the center of your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Save leftover Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta by cooling it completely and transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a fantastic make-ahead lunch or quick dinner option you’ll look forward to.
Freezing
While the sauce can be frozen on its own (just cool it completely first), the pasta itself can become a bit soft after freezing and reheating. For best results, store extra sauce separately and add it to freshly boiled pasta before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash or two of milk or cream, warming gently over low heat and stirring frequently. This keeps it luscious and prevents the sauce from separating. The microwave works in a pinch, just do so in short bursts and stir in between to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have ripe, juicy tomatoes on hand, chop them up and use them in place of canned crushed tomatoes. Sauté them longer to help them break down and release all their delicious juices for that classic Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta flavor.
What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some sautéed tofu are excellent additions. Simply cook your protein separately, then toss it in with the pasta right before serving to keep everything perfectly tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or an unsweetened cashew cream, and use your preferred dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The results are still rich, creamy, and completely crave-worthy.
Can I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Make sure your cheese is gluten-free as well, and you’ll have a bowl of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta that everyone can enjoy.
What should I do if the sauce gets too thick?
No stress! If your sauce tightens up, splash in a little more of the reserved pasta water or an extra spoonful of cream until you reach the perfect velvety consistency.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a fast but unforgettable dinner, Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is the answer. It’s comforting, impressive, and endlessly customizable—so why not invite some friends over or treat yourself to a cozy plateful tonight? Once you try it, I promise it’ll become one of your forever favorites!
Print
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta, a delicious Italian-inspired dish perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy pasta features a luscious tomato and garlic sauce tossed with your favorite pasta and finished with Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to coat. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Garnish with basil and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
