Description

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. Featuring al dente pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this recipe is bursting with flavor and beautifully garnished with fresh basil. Optional red pepper flakes add a delightful hint of heat, balancing the creaminess perfectly.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Let the mixture cook for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
Add Cream: Reduce the heat to a simmer and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Incorporate Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy tomato garlic sauce until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve: Remove from heat, plate the pasta, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
If fresh tomatoes are in season, using them can add a fresher flavor to the sauce.
Be sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
This dish pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make the meal heartier.