Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe | Quick Easy Dinner Idea
"This creamy tomato garlic pasta recipe is fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Made with fresh garlic, rich tomato sauce, and parmesan, it’s a quick comfort food dish everyone will love."
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Colander
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half/oat cream)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly reduced.
- Lower heat and add cream. Stir gently until sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
- Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water for silky texture.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container for 2–3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop with splash of cream or water; avoid microwaving too long.
- Variations: Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein; spinach or mushrooms for seasonal twists.
- Tip: Always reserve pasta water—it helps emulsify the sauce for a silky finish.