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If you are craving a dish that feels both comforting and elegant, let me introduce you to this Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe. It brings together the rich, velvety creaminess of heavy cream, the bright and tangy punch of crushed tomatoes, and the aromatic warmth of garlic in one luscious pasta bowl. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an effortless crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of ingredients that are kitchen staples makes this Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe delightfully straightforward to prepare. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender pasta that cradles the sauce to the fresh basil that adds a vibrant, fragrant finish.
- 12 oz pasta: Penne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape—each carries the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for gently sautéing garlic and building the base flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and depth.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: The star for that rich tomato flavor and bright acid balance.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential to bring all the flavors forward.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for a gentle background spice.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a dreamy, silky sauce that lingers on the palate.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and helps thicken the sauce slightly.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Provides a fragrant, fresh contrast that brightens the dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Keeping the pasta slightly firm gives you that perfect bite and prevents it from becoming mushy once mixed with the sauce. Be sure to scoop out half a cup of pasta water before draining—that starchy liquid will be your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook gently until fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it. This step releases garlic’s natural sweetness and infuses the oil, setting a flavorful foundation for the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld all those vibrant flavors together and reduce the sauce slightly, intensifying the tomato’s natural sweetness.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and slowly whisk in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce turns luxuriously creamy and smooth. If it feels too thick, add in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the texture without diluting the flavour.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Toss everything together over low heat so each piece of pasta can soak in those warm, garlicky, tomatoey flavors. This final step brings the dish together into the perfect harmony of cream, spice, and brightness.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this creamy pasta quite like a scatter of fresh basil leaves. The herb adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh, slightly peppery aroma that cuts through the richness. For an extra sprinkle of indulgence, you can also grate a bit more Parmesan cheese on top.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are also fantastic companions that help soak up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this dish in shallow pasta bowls garnished with a drizzle of good olive oil and a few toasted pine nuts for texture. You can also nestle a poached egg on top to add richness and make it a hearty meal in itself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld nicely, but the pasta may continue to absorb sauce, so it might need a splash of water or cream when reheated.
Freezing
While this Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to avoid breaking the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat your pasta slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of pasta water or cream as needed to restore the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or spaghetti work wonderfully, feel free to use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta depending on what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and replace Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely based on your spice preference.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the tomato and garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, just reheat gently and finish with cream, cheese, and pasta.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Light cream or half-and-half can work as lighter alternatives, but they might yield a slightly less rich sauce. For dairy-free options, coconut milk or nut-based creams are great substitutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe that is both quick and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to keep coming back to whenever you need a reliable, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. Trust me: once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite in your recipe collection. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this creamy, garlicky, tomatoey goodness tonight!
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Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy creamy garlic tomato pasta that combines tender pasta with a rich, flavorful sauce made from garlic, crushed tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, finished with fresh basil for a delicious weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite)
- Salt, for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
To Garnish
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta to use later in the sauce.
- Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smoother melting.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure the Parmesan is free from animal rennet or substitute with a vegetarian cheese.
- Fresh basil can be substituted or supplemented with fresh parsley or oregano depending on preference.
