Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is an easy and comforting dish made with simple pantry ingredients. This recipe combines the rich smoothness of cream with fresh tomatoes and fragrant garlic to create a flavorful pasta that feels both cozy and elegant. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or when you want something delicious without much effort. The creamy texture and fresh flavors make this pasta a family favorite.
Why This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Will Be Your New Favorite
- Super Quick: Comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
- Luxurious Creaminess: A silky sauce of cream and garlic delivers a comforting, restaurant-style indulgence.
- Fresh and Flavorful: Juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil brighten every bite.
- Kid & Family Approved: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both children and adults.
- Totally Adaptable: Easily add chicken, shrimp, or extra vegetables to suit your taste.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup fresh ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Equipment You Will Need
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander (to drain pasta)
- Large skillet or sauté pan (for sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Knife and cutting board (for tomatoes and garlic)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: cheese grater (for Parmesan)
Step-by-Step Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add Cream: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream gradually, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat evenly with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Expert Tips for Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use fresh garlic to enhance flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste.
- Keep the pasta al dente so it absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Adjust cream consistency by adding a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp garden salad, warm garlic bread, or roasted veggies to create a full, satisfying meal.
- Boost the protein by adding sautéed mushrooms, tender grilled chicken, or juicy shrimp.
- Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat, or top with extra Parmesan for an indulgent cheesy finish.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a rich, velvety sauce that feels indulgent yet approachable for home cooks. Its fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and creamy texture make it a family favorite, while the flexibility to add proteins or extra veggies allows you to customize it to your taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with loved ones, this pasta recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta (Easy 30-Minute Dinner)
This creamy tomato garlic pasta is a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner ready in just 25 minutes. With fresh tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a silky cream sauce, it’s comforting, family-friendly, and easy to customize with proteins or veggies. Perfect for busy nights or cozy meals!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup fresh ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30–40 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 4–5 minutes until soft.
- Add Cream: Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream gradually until smooth.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Toss pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese.
Optional Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Pair with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or shrimp for protein.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for mild heat or extra Parmesan for cheesy indulgence.
Notes
- Pasta Choice: Spaghetti or fettuccine works best, but you can use penne or linguine as alternatives.
- Cream Substitutes: For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water until creamy.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and cook pasta just before serving for quick assembly.
- Protein Options: Chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms can be added to make it more filling.
- Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick if desired.
- Storage Tip: Store pasta and sauce separately to keep the texture fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.
