Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; extra Parmesan for serving

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If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food that comes together in less than 30 minutes, look no further than Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. This dish is a cozy hug in a bowl, marrying rich tomato flavor, velvety creaminess, fragrant garlic, and a sprinkling of fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness. It’s the weeknight dinner you’ll crave again and again—simple enough for a quick family meal, yet special enough for guests. The best part? Everything comes together with pantry staples, making it both delicious and wonderfully doable.

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of classic ingredients to build bold, satisfying flavors in Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. Each item plays an essential role, bringing its unique character to the sauce and pasta—so every bite bursts with harmonious taste and just the right texture.

Pasta (12 ounces, penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape; penne holds the sauce well while fettuccine gives each forkful a decadent twirl.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle richness and helps the garlic cook gently to release its aroma.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The aromatic heart of the dish, infusing the sauce with irresistible flavor.
Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14 ounces): Provides the bright, tangy base that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings classic Italian herbal notes—don’t skip it!
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat; adjust as you wish.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just enough bite to contrast the rich sauce.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The secret to creamy, luxurious pasta that feels like a treat.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce, giving it a nutty, salty finish that makes this pasta irresistible.
Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brings color and a burst of freshness right at the end.
Extra Parmesan for serving: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!

How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—salting the water is your first chance to season the pasta itself. Once the water is briskly boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Remember to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid will become your best friend when achieving the perfect sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for one to two minutes, stirring often. Your kitchen will smell amazing! Just be careful not to let the garlic brown, as that can add a bitterness you don’t want in your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, letting the flavors meld together as the sauce simmers gently. Let it bubble away for eight to ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and smells heavenly.

Step 4: Create Creamy Perfection

Once your tomato base is ready, reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Watch as the sauce transforms into a rosy, creamy dream! Add the grated Parmesan and stir until it melts completely, creating a luscious, smooth sauce that coats the back of your spoon.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to reunite the pasta with your sauce. Add the cooked (and drained) pasta right into the skillet and toss everything together. Splash in a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen up the sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is perfectly coated. Finish by scattering chopped fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan over the top.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Garnishes

For a flourish of color and extra flavor, finish your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil, more grated Parmesan, and if you like, a twist of black pepper or a light drizzle of good olive oil. It’s all about those little touches that make your plate look and taste restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pairing options are endless—try a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette, or buttery garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter also complement the luscious flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta for company, twirl portions into neat nests on each plate and garnish with basil and microgreens for an elegant touch. For a family-style meal, pile it high in a rustic serving bowl and let everyone help themselves. If you’re feeling playful, serve it in small ramekins as a decadent appetizer or side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner downright crave-worthy.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months in an airtight freezer-safe container. Just be aware that the cream sauce may separate slightly after thawing, but a gentle stir while reheating typically brings it back together.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help revive the sauce’s silky consistency. If you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave works just fine—again, add a little extra liquid to keep things creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you love—fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work beautifully. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up to the rich, creamy sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half is a great lighter option for Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta, or you can try coconut cream for a dairy-free spin. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different depending on your substitute.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms are all fantastic protein options that blend beautifully with the sauce, making the meal extra hearty.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta uses traditional wheat pasta, but you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make it accommodating for dietary needs.

How can I make it spicier?

Simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce as it simmers. Adjust to your preferred spice level—this recipe is all about making it your own.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is bound to become your new standby for easy indulgence. I hope you give this recipe a try—the blend of creamy tomato sauce, aromatic garlic, and plenty of Parmesan will win you over every single time. Enjoy every comforting forkful!

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a creamy and flavorful experience with this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with the tangy sweetness of crushed tomatoes, all infused with aromatic garlic and herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
extra Parmesan for serving

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Finish the Sauce: Reduce heat, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved water.
Serve: Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan before serving.