If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for easy weeknight dinners that not only taste delicious but also come together in a flash. This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is exactly what you need—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. In just under 30 minutes, you can have this comforting dish on your table, ready to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this pasta will always hit the spot.
Trust me, once you try this creamy, garlic-infused tomato sauce, you’ll want to make it again and again. The best part? It’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry! Perfect for those days when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This pasta dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
- Rich & Creamy: The smooth, luscious tomato sauce mixed with cream and garlic is pure comfort food.
- Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy ingredients! This recipe uses pantry st
- aples for an effortless meal.
- Customizable: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite veggies to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner for one or a family meal, this pasta works for everything!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta isn’t your average pasta dish. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients that come together to create an irresistible, smooth, and comforting sauce. The garlic adds a rich aroma while the tomato base offers a slight tang that’s balanced out by the creaminess of the heavy cream and Parmesan. And if you’re looking to make it a high-protein meal, feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. You can easily adjust the spiciness with red pepper flakes or cayenne, and you can make it vegan or dairy-free by using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. No matter how you serve it, this pasta will feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy, garlicky pasta:
- Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic, minced
- Crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
How to Make It Step-by-Step
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce
- Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep everything combined.
- Add Cream & Cheese
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you get the desired consistency.
- Combine & Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat it evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
- For extra creaminess, stir in butter at the end.
- Want a thicker sauce? Let it simmer longer or add more Parmesan cheese.
- If you love high-protein meals, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu.
- Don’t forget to save some pasta water—it helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds extra starch for a creamy finish.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Vegan Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick!
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, sausage, or even crispy chickpeas for a satisfying high protein meal.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for more color and flavor.
- Wine-Infused: For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta is a quick family meal on its own, but you can easily elevate it by pairing it with:
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a full, protein-packed meal that’s also rich in flavor.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
- Simple Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and healthy addition.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- Drinks: A crisp, cold glass of white wine (think Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay) pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce. If you’re after a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a chilled iced tea.
- Sides: A warm, buttered roll or a fresh side salad will complement this creamy pasta perfectly. If you’re craving something a bit heartier, roasted potatoes or sautéed greens would work wonders too.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just store it in a sealed container and let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm up leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and toss it with the sauce.
- Freezer-Friendly: If you’re meal prepping or want to enjoy this pasta later, freeze the sauce separately. Reheat it with a splash of cream or pasta water to bring back its luscious texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Keep an eye on the clock and cook your pasta just until it’s al dente—don’t let it get too soft!
- Adding Cream Too Early: Always add cream on low heat to avoid curdling. Stir constantly to keep it smooth.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water. It’s a game-changer when it comes to creating the perfect creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Simply blend fresh tomatoes for a smoother texture, or cook them down for a chunkier sauce.
What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best, but any pasta shape you like will do!
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can store the sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I make it thicker?
Simmer the sauce longer or add more Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just use a plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan cheese for a fully dairy-free version.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
- Large Skillet: To make the creamy sauce.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
- Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh basil to taste for garnish
- Parmesan cheese to taste for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
