Imagine the comforting aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen as a pot of pasta simmers on the stove. This creamy tomato garlic pasta is a delightful blend of rich flavors that come together in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. The combination of tangy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and velvety cream ensures a satisfying dish that’s both decadent and familiar.
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a quick but indulgent meal. Whether cooking for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or meal prep for the week, creamy tomato garlic pasta will not disappoint. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy the flavors again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy texture paired with tangy tomatoes is irresistible.
- It takes just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Sautéing garlic brings out a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- It’s simple enough for weeknight cooking yet elegant for entertaining.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no added sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Diced tomatoes may also be replaced with fresh tomatoes, chopped.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Any firm cheese can replace Parmesan.
- Fresh basil can garnish for added flavor.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your creamy tomato garlic pasta.
Boil pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden brown, about 2 minutes.
Add tomatoes
Add diced tomatoes with juices to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in cream
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Let bubble gently for 2 minutes.
Melt cheese
Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine pasta and sauce
Drain pasta, reserving some cooking water. Combine pasta with the sauce, adding reserved water if needed for consistency.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer: no, cream may separate upon thawing
Reheat: on the stove over low heat for 10 minutes
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to maintain texture.
- Adjust the cream based on the desired richness of the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to achieve a perfect sauce consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh side salad for balance.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Perfect with a glass of white wine for a relaxed dinner.
