If you’re in the mood for a rich, flavorful, and comforting meal, look no further than Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. This dish brings together the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of a velvety sauce and the bold, tangy flavor of fresh tomatoes and garlic.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just craving something indulgent, this pasta is sure to become a household favorite.

The beauty of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta lies in its simplicity. It’s made with a handful of staple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

The combination of garlic, tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that coats every strand of pasta, giving you a bite that’s nothing short of satisfying. While it may sound rich, it’s perfectly balanced with the freshness of the tomatoes and the depth of the garlic.

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Quick and Easy: This dish is perfect for busy nights. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, restaurant-quality meal ready to serve.

Rich and Flavorful: The creaminess from the sauce combined with the depth of garlic and the bright flavor of tomatoes creates a comforting, mouth-watering dish.

Versatile: You can customize this recipe based on your preferences. Add chicken, spinach, or even a little spice if you want to give it your own twist.

Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special gathering, this dish fits any occasion and is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

1- For the pasta:

8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or your preferred type)
1 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (or use fresh, ripe tomatoes for a more vibrant flavor)
1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

2- For the sauce:

1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Tomato Garlic Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes (if using fresh). Allow the tomatoes to simmer for 5-7 minutes until they start to break down, releasing their juices and flavors into the sauce.
Incorporate the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Once the sauce is smooth, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.

Season the Sauce: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired) for a hint of heat. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the tomato sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Let the pasta soak in the sauce for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
Finish the Dish: Remove the pan from heat. If you want a more vibrant dish, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top. Toss one final time to combine.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate the creamy tomato garlic pasta and top with extra Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations to Try:

Add Protein: For a more filling dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to your creamy tomato garlic pasta.

Spinach or Kale: Add some fresh spinach or kale to the pasta to increase the nutritional value and add a lovely green color to the dish.

Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce. This will complement the creaminess and add a depth of heat.

Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. You can also use dairy-free pasta for a fully plant-based meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and reheat the sauce on the stove.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh, ripe tomatoes will give the sauce a fresher taste. Just chop them finely before adding them to the pan.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I freeze this dish? Creamy sauces can sometimes separate when frozen and thawed. If you plan to freeze this recipe, it’s best to freeze just the sauce and cook fresh pasta when ready to eat.

How to Serve:

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the sauce. A simple Caesar salad or arugula salad with balsamic vinegar works wonders alongside this comforting dish.

For a true indulgence, serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water to refresh the palate.

With its deliciously rich and comforting flavor, Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a must-try for pasta lovers. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy evening, and it can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whip up this recipe, and you’ll have a meal everyone will love.