Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

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Introduction

Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. This dish combines the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the rich creaminess of a velvety sauce, and the bold, aromatic kick of garlic to create a pasta that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe uses a handful of pantry staples to deliver restaurant-quality flavor in no time.

The first time I made this pasta, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients came together to create such a luxurious dish. Sautéing garlic in olive oil filled the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, and the way the tomatoes and cream melded into a silky sauce was pure magic. By the time the pasta was tossed in, I knew this was a recipe I’d be making again and again.

What I love most about this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite additions, like fresh basil, spinach, or grilled chicken, to make it your own. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a comforting bowl of pure deliciousness. No matter how you serve it, this pasta is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Quick and easy meals
  • Romantic date nights
  • Family gatherings
  • Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta will become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of cream and tomato creates a velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
  • Bursting with Garlic Flavor: Garlic adds a bold, aromatic kick that enhances the dish’s savory notes.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe requires only a handful of ingredients.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy days when you need dinner on the table fast.
  • Versatile: Customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Garlic: The star of this dish, garlic provides a bold and fragrant base for the sauce.
  • Crushed Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a rich and flavorful sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Pasta: Spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work well, but any pasta you love will do.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties the dish together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Stir in Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

  1. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce.
  2. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
  3. Add Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix well.

Serve:

  1. Plate the Pasta: Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
  2. Garnish: Top with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish.

How to Serve

  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped fresh basil, parsley, or oregano for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Add Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra creaminess and a salty kick.
  • Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Include a Side Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance.
  • Pair with Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared salmon for a heartier meal.
  • Use a Pasta Bowl: Plate the pasta in shallow bowls to make it feel like a cozy, restaurant-quality dish.
  • Top with Crushed Red Pepper: For a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving.
  • Serve Family Style: Present the pasta in a large serving dish so everyone can help themselves at the table.
  • Offer Crusty Bread: Provide slices of crusty artisan bread for dipping into the sauce.
  • Drizzle with Olive Oil: Add a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top for an elegant finish.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor for this dish.
  • Warm the Cream: Bringing the cream to room temperature before adding it helps prevent curdling.
  • Season to Taste: Adjust the salt, pepper, and chili flakes to your liking for a personalized flavor.
  • Reheat Gently: Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Tomato Pasta: Increase the chili flakes for a spicier kick.
  2. Mushroom and Spinach Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms and fresh spinach before adding the tomatoes for extra veggies.
  3. Chicken Alfredo Twist: Add cooked chicken strips and mix them into the sauce for added protein.
  4. Shrimp Tomato Pasta: Toss in sautéed shrimp for a seafood version.
  5. Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan Parmesan for a plant-based alternative.
  6. Pesto-Tomato Pasta: Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto for an herby twist.
  7. Cheesy Bake: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden.
  8. Bacon and Tomato Pasta: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
  9. Roasted Garlic Pasta: Roast the garlic for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
  10. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
  • Storage: Store leftover pasta in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment

  • Large Pasta Pot: For boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
  • Deep-Skillet or Sauté Pan: Perfect for making the creamy tomato garlic sauce.
  • Fine-Mesh Strainer: To drain the cooked pasta while reserving some starchy water for the sauce.
  • Garlic Press: Quickly and easily minces garlic for a smooth, aromatic sauce.
  • Microplane/Zester: Ideal for grating fresh Parmesan cheese or zesting lemon for a finishing touch.
  • Blender/Immersion Blender: Smooths out the tomato sauce for a creamy texture if desired.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce and pasta to prevent sticking or burning.
  • Ladle: Makes it easier to scoop pasta water to incorporate into the sauce.
  • Tongs: Helps toss and coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
  • Cheese Grater: Essential for grating fresh cheese directly into the sauce for the best flavor.

FAQ

  1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and crush them before adding to the skillet.
  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
  3. What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe? Any pasta works, but spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine are great choices for holding the sauce.
  4. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
  5. How can I make it more flavorful? Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after sautéing the garlic, or sprinkle in some crushed red chili flakes for heat.

Conclusion

Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a deliciously simple recipe that combines rich flavors with effortless preparation. The garlicky tomato cream sauce perfectly coats every strand of pasta, creating a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress, this recipe delivers every time.

Customizable with your favorite add-ins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or fresh veggies, this pasta is as versatile as it is satisfying. A sprinkle of fresh basil and Parmesan cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite a flavorful delight.

I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations or tips in the comments. Happy cooking!

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