If you’re on the hunt for a pasta dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, look no further than this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of rich, velvety cream and vibrant, tangy tomato, rounded out with just the right amount of garlic punch. Each bite offers a luscious sauce clinging expertly to tender strands of pasta, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious. This recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for weeknight dinners when I crave something hearty but fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, creating layers of flavor and texture that come together beautifully. You’ll see how straightforward staples like garlic and canned tomatoes can transform a pasta dish into something spectacular.
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta shape, cooked al dente to hold the luscious sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle richness and is the ideal base for sautéing garlic.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): The key aromatic that infuses the sauce with warmth and depth.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Provides fresh, tangy body and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Introduces a fragrant herbal note that complements the tomato beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends an earthy, slightly peppery hint for complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat goes a long way to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creaminess that makes this sauce so indulgent.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that enriches every mouthful.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, lively pop of color and taste.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente — tender but still with a little bite. Drain it well and set it aside, as you’ll be tossing it into the sauce later to absorb all those incredible flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it becomes fragrant and golden. This quick step releases that irresistible garlic aroma that makes everyone’s mouth water.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes, if you like a bit of spice. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low before pouring in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Stir well and simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes. Watch as the sauce transforms into a thick, creamy coating that’s irresistible on pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, season with salt and pepper, then add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly, making sure every strand of pasta is luxuriously covered in that creamy tomato garlic goodness. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you desire.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of vibrant chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of green that makes the dish visually appealing. Don’t forget an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese to give it that authentic, cheesy finish that elevates the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette — the acidity cuts through the rich creaminess perfectly. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is also a fantastic choice to mop up every last drop of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy tomato garlic pasta recipe in individual bowls garnished with edible flowers or a drizzle of basil oil for a personal, gourmet touch. You can even scoop portions into hollowed-out tomatoes for a charming presentation that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it an easy and satisfying next-day meal option. Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This creamy tomato garlic pasta recipe freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months and is great to thaw and reheat on busy days when you want something comforting in a snap.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce appears too thick to restore its velvety texture seamlessly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or spaghetti works wonderfully, feel free to swap in penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your preference or dietary needs.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream and cheese?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version that still retains rich flavors.
How spicy is this pasta with the red pepper flakes?
The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle, warming heat that complements the creamy tomato sauce without overpowering it. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make fantastic additions, turning this simple pasta into a hearty meal that pleases everyone at the table.
What if I want a lighter version of this creamy tomato garlic pasta recipe?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess. Using less cheese or choosing a lower-fat option also helps keep it lighter.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe is a true kitchen hero, delivering comfort and indulgence with surprisingly simple ingredients and little fuss. It’s perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with its rich, garlicky tomato magic just as much as I have.
Print
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a rich and comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender pasta coated in a luscious sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and creamy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines bold flavors with simple ingredients to create a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, which helps develop a rich garlic flavor in the sauce.
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors can blend together and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes creamy and thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season and Combine: Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every strand with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if preferred for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and variation.
