Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for any night of the week. With a rich, velvety sauce and the comforting aroma of garlic, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare all ingredients by measuring the pasta, olive oil, and herbs. Mince the garlic, open the diced tomatoes, grate the Parmesan, and chop fresh basil if using.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
4. Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes until heated through.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Step 6: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat it in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines fully.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a lighter, fresher taste during tomato season.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• For extra protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this sauce works well with most pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni. Just adjust cooking time as needed for each shape.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Not as written, because it includes heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. To make it vegan, substitute with plant-based cream and vegan cheese alternatives.

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 663 reviews

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich and flavorful tomato and garlic cream sauce. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and Parmesan cheese, it’s a simple yet indulgent meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

pasta

• 8 ounces spaghetti or penne pasta

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Measure the pasta, olive oil, and herbs. Mince the garlic finely to release its aroma. Open the canned diced tomatoes and set aside. Grate the Parmesan cheese and chop fresh basil if using, ensuring all elements are ready before cooking.
2. Cooking the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and set aside to maintain its texture.
3. Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning. Add diced tomatoes with their juice and cook for 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors. Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and integrates smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
5. Final Touches and Serving: Serve the pasta immediately for the best flavor. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for an appealing presentation and slight herbal freshness. Enjoy this delicious, comforting dish with family or friends.

Notes

• Use pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne for best results.
• Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is ideal.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
• Fresh basil garnish adds brightness but is optional.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

Keywords: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta, Italian Pasta, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Vegetarian Pasta, Creamy Tomato Sauce