Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

This recipe combines bold garlic flavor with juicy tomatoes and velvety cream for an irresistibly rich sauce. It’s quick to make, uses basic ingredients, and delivers restaurant‑quality taste without the fuss. You can easily adapt it to use fresh or canned tomatoes, and it pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 cup ripe tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden—take care not to burn it.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for about 5 minutes to soften and meld the flavors.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce and toss until all the noodles are evenly coated.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh basil, and, if desired, top with grated Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.
• Stir in baby spinach or roasted bell peppers for more veggies.
• Use half‑and‑half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce if you like heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best for this dish?

Long strands like spaghetti or fettuccine are classic, but penne or rigatoni also hold the sauce well.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned diced tomatoes work wonderfully and make the recipe even easier year‑round.

Is there a dairy‑free alternative?

You can substitute coconut milk or a plant‑based cream for a dairy‑free version.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

Stir the cream in on low heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What herbs go well with this pasta?

Fresh basil is classic, but parsley or oregano would also complement the flavors.

How spicy is this dish?

This version isn’t spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, stirring in grated Parmesan enhances richness and flavor.

How do I store leftover pasta?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What should I serve with this pasta?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great sides.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a simple yet rich and satisfying meal that comes together in about 25 minutes. With its lush tomato cream sauce and bold garlic notes, it’s a crowd‑pleasing dish perfect for any evening of the week. Customize it with your favorite add‑ins and enjoy a comforting bowl that feels both homey and special.

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta