There’s something oh-so-comforting about a big bowl of pasta. When the flavors come together beautifully, it just warms my heart. This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for friends, this recipe promises smiles all around.
why make this recipe
Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil. It’s a scent that invites you to the kitchen. This dish uses fresh, ripe tomatoes, which add a burst of flavor. And let’s not forget the cream—rich and satisfying. It’s a quick meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. You’ll find joy in the colors and the simplicity of the ingredients. It feels special, and you’ll feel accomplished serving something so delicious without too much fuss.
how to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
This pasta shines on its own, but feel free to pair it with a simple green salad or some crunchy garlic bread. I love serving this with sourdough garlic rolls, as they are perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce. Make it a feast!
how to store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers (which might be a challenge because it’s so good), store your pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or a little olive oil to bring that creaminess back to life. You can also enjoy it cold in a pasta salad if you’re feeling adventurous!
tips to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Choose ripe tomatoes for better flavor. You could use cherry tomatoes too; they’ll add a nice sweetness!
- Fresh basil is key; it elevates the dish significantly. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
- If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would work beautifully. Check out my grilled lemon herb chicken for an easy idea.
- Don’t be tempted to skip salting the pasta water; it makes a huge difference in flavor. Think of it as seasoning your pasta!
- If you’re in the mood for a twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
variation
For a veggie-packed twist, you can toss in some spinach or kale right before adding the cream. It wilts beautifully, and you get a pop of color and nutrients—talk about a win-win!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work; just be mindful of the cooking time since different pasta varies.
How can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. The flavors will change slightly, but it remains delicious!
What if I can’t find fresh tomatoes?
Canned diced tomatoes work wonders in this recipe too. Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the sauce. They’re a great alternative when fresh tomatoes are out of season.
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. I can’t wait for you to try it!
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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and simple pasta dish featuring garlic, ripe tomatoes, and rich cream that warms the heart.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for protein. To elevate the dish, use fresh tomatoes and basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: pasta, creamy, tomato, garlic, Italian, easy recipe
