Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Name: Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of choice; Salt for boiling water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta recipe. This indulgent dish combines al dente pasta with a rich, velvety sauce made from ripe tomatoes and aromatic garlic, creating a satisfying meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfectly seasoned and garnished with fresh herbs, this pasta is a comforting classic that the whole family will love.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-09T16:12:50.713Z

This recipe for Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a game changer for busy weeknights. The combination of fresh ingredients creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will enjoy.

A Flavorful Twist on Pasta Night

Pasta night doesn’t have to be mundane or predictable. This Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta brings a vibrant burst of flavor that transforms your regular weeknight meal into something special. With the rich taste of ripe tomatoes and the aromatic scent of garlic, every bite becomes a delightful experience. The creamy texture adds depth, making it not just a meal but a moment to savor.

Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish provides the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. It marries simple ingredients into a luxurious experience, proving that sometimes, less is more. Dive into your pantry, and you’ll likely find all you need to prepare this effortless dish that surprises and delights.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is incredibly versatile. It can effortlessly transition from a casual weeknight dinner to a fancy weekend gathering. Add a side salad and some garlic bread, and you've got a complete meal that's bound to impress. The fresh ingredients used in this recipe provide not just flavor, but also a vibrant plate that’s visually appealing.

Additionally, this dish caters to various dietary preferences. Swap out the pasta for gluten-free options or adjust the cream to a dairy-free alternative without compromising the overall taste. The sauce can also be enhanced with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand, making it suitable for every taste and occasion.

Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta

To achieve the best texture for your sauce, use high-quality crushed tomatoes. Opt for ones that are packed in their own juices, as they provide richer flavor compared to those in thicker sauces. Fresh garlic will also elevate your dish significantly; sauté it just until fragrant to avoid a bitter taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, as personal preference varies when it comes to salt and pepper.

For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, allowing it to deglaze the skillet. This will infuse the sauce with an extra layer of flavor that brings another dimension to your creamy tomato pasta. The balance of acidity from the tomatoes and the richness of the cream is key to this dish's success.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta of choice
Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use ripe tomatoes for the sauce for the best flavor.

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the crushed tomatoes and dried basil.

Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to combine well.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

This creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, deepening the taste even further. When storing, add a splash of cream or a bit of olive oil to keep the pasta moist during refrigeration.

When it's time to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help revive the creamy texture, stirring continuously. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy tomato pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which will complement the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon serves as a refreshing counterpart.

To enhance your meal, serve this dish alongside a classic Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta, rounding out your dining experience perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any type of pasta you prefer.

→ Is there a non-dairy substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a non-dairy alternative.