Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
This creamy, garlicky pasta dish features a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of spice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy comfort meal.
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!
Nutrition
Serving: 1peopleCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 7g
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