Description
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is made with a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream. It’s simple, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Creamy Tomato Garlic Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (14-oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for extra richness)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper or chili flakes
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Tomato Garlic Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. (Add red pepper flakes if using.)
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the butter and stir until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Combine & Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter alternative.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein.
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes (sautéed) instead of canned tomatoes for a fresher flavor.