Name: Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of choice (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or 1½ cups tomato sauce; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta is my favorite way to enjoy a rich, comforting bowl of noodles with just the right balance of savory garlic, sweet tomatoes, and silky cream. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together fast and always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this pasta feels indulgent without being heavy. The garlic and tomato sauce is full of flavor, and the cream ties everything together with a smooth, luscious texture. Whether I’m making a quick dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe never fails me. Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta of choice (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
Olive oil or butter
Garlic (minced)
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Heavy cream
Grated parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then reserve some of the pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
I pour in the crushed tomatoes and let them simmer for 5–7 minutes to deepen the flavor.
I stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
I let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened.
I add the cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water, tossing until everything is coated and creamy.
I stir in the parmesan cheese and taste for seasoning.
I serve hot, topped with fresh herbs and extra cheese if I’m feeling fancy.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. If I want protein, grilled chicken or shrimp go really well with the sauce. For a lighter version, I swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream alternative.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of water or milk and warm it on the stove or in the microwave to loosen the sauce. It reheats well without losing its creamy texture. Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta

FAQs

Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, I’ve used both. Crushed tomatoes give a chunkier texture, while sauce makes it smoother—both are delicious.

What pasta shape works best?

I usually go with penne or fettuccine because they hold the sauce well, but any pasta works.

Is it very garlicky?

It has a bold garlic flavor, but I adjust it depending on my mood. Sometimes I use more, sometimes less.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use a plant-based cream and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How can I make it spicier?

I add extra red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne to bring up the heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta is the kind of dish I turn to when I want something quick, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and always leaves me looking forward to the next bite.