Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a perfect dish for anyone who loves comforting, rich flavors. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the warmth of garlic, and the creaminess of heavy cream to create a delightful sauce that clings beautifully to your chosen pasta. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners, and it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to conquer. Plus, it requires just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and toss to combine.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Serve this creamy pasta hot, directly from the skillet. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh basil on top for added flavor and a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.
How to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it stays firm when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust the garlic based on your taste; you can add more if you love that distinct garlic flavor.
- For a lightened-up version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely touch, but if you don’t have it, dried Italian herbs can work in a pinch.
Variation
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the pasta for more nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them in the skillet with the garlic for an extra delicious touch.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like works perfectly here, whether it’s penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.
Is there a vegetarian version of the dish?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it stands. Just ensure the Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet for a vegetarian option.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s best to eat cream-based pasta dishes fresh, but you can freeze the leftovers. Just be aware that the texture may change upon reheating.
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and sauce
- 8 oz pasta (your choice) Cook according to package instructions
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Add according to taste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes With juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adjust for additional flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish Optional, can also use dried herbs
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and toss to combine.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
