Imagine twirling forkfuls of a velvety, aromatic pasta coated in a luscious tomato-garlic cream sauce—comfort in every bite. This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe combines the savory punch of garlic, the tang of ripe tomatoes, and the richness of cream into a dinner that’s both quick and indulgent. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat, this dish will quickly become your go-to pasta.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!From the first simmer of the sauce to the final sprinkle of fresh basil, this recipe is designed for home cooks seeking rich tomato garlic pasta without the fuss. Ready in under 30 minutes, it guarantees a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavor-Packed: Garlic, tomato, and cream blend for a rich, savory experience.
Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients, yet packed with taste.
Customizable: Add chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to suit your family’s preference.
Kid-Friendly: Creamy texture and mild spice make it appealing for all ages.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Smooth, luxurious sauce rivals your favorite Italian spot.
One-Pot Option Available: Less cleanup, more savoring.
Healthy Adjustments: Swap cream with milk or Greek yogurt for lighter versions.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Pasta
12 oz fettuccine or penne (substitute with gluten-free or whole wheat pasta for variation)
Sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil (enhances flavor and prevents garlic from burning)
4 cloves garlic, minced (aromatic base, key to the garlic flavor)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adds subtle heat)
1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes (choose high-quality, no-salt-added for best flavor)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (herbal depth)
1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity of tomatoes)
1/2 cup heavy cream (creates signature creaminess)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds umami and thickness)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Additions:
Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach
Cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage
How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water for later if needed to thin the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and sugar to the skillet. Stir well and simmer on medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes. This step develops a deep tomato flavor and slightly thickens the sauce.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, whisking occasionally until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. Stir in chopped basil. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh basil.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Always add cream on low heat and stir continuously. Using heavy cream ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
Can I make this one-pot?
Yes! Cook pasta directly in the sauce with an extra 1 cup of water or stock. This allows the pasta to absorb flavors while cooking.
Can I make it vegan?
Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How to boost garlic flavor without overpowering?
Roast the garlic before sautéing for a deeper, mellow flavor.
Best Ways to Serve
Serve with a side of garlic bread or homemade focaccia for a complete Italian experience.
Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance richness.
Use leftover sauce over roasted vegetables or as a pizza base.
Nutrition per Serving (Approx.)
Calories: 420
Protein: 12g
Carbs: 50g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 550mg
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months; pasta may become softer upon thawing.
Reheating: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use 3–4 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Simmer longer to reduce liquid and concentrate flavors.
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti hold the sauce well. Use gluten-free or whole-grain pasta if desired.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage are excellent additions. Add pre-cooked proteins at the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
How spicy is this dish?
Mild, unless you add red pepper flakes. Adjust according to taste.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce a day in advance and reheat. Toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.
Variations
Cheesy Tomato Garlic Pasta: Add mozzarella or fontina for extra richness.
One-Pot Version: Cook pasta directly in sauce for easier cleanup.
Low-Calorie Creamy Pasta: Use Greek yogurt or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Herb Infusion: Add thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist.
Regional Twist: Use San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic Italian flavor.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe is a foolproof way to create a flavorful, comforting meal in under 30 minutes. Its rich, garlicky sauce, smooth creaminess, and fresh basil garnish make it a standout on any dinner table.