Your Taste Buds Are Going to Thank You!
Imagine a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that dances on your palate with every bite. Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers! It’s quick, easy, and all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy. Who doesn’t want a dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare but really only takes 20 minutes?
Why Make This Recipe
Let’s be real — when it comes to weeknight meals, simplicity is key. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:
- Less mess, more joy! With just one pan to clean, you can focus on the fun part: eating.
- Budget-friendly ingredients means you don’t have to break the bank for a delicious meal.
- Family-approved! Kids and adults alike will dive in, leaving even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Ready to whip up some pasta magic? Follow these simple steps:
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta (Overview)
Alright, let’s break it down! Start by cooking your pasta until it’s perfectly al dente — nobody likes mushy noodles! Meanwhile, you’re going to sauté that garlic until it’s golden and aromatic, filling your kitchen with a delightful scent. Add your juicy tomatoes next, letting them burst with flavor. Then, you’ll swirl in the heavy cream, turning things into a velvety sauce that lovingly hugs the pasta. Quick tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Picture this: a bowl of luscious creamy pasta topped with vibrant green basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread for that perfect crunch, and maybe a simple side salad for color. The aroma will fill the room, making it hard to resist diving in! 🍽️
How to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Got leftovers? No worries! This pasta keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Simply store it in an airtight container. Wanna make it ahead? You can prep the sauce and pasta separately, then combine when ready to serve. For reheating, just add a splash of cream or milk to bring back that creamy texture when warming it up.
Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Want to elevate your pasta game? Here are some quick insider tricks:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it; it can go from golden to burnt in a flash!
- If you’re really craving extra creaminess, mix in a bit of cream cheese with the heavy cream.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped out — try oregano for a different flavor twist.
- For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are some simple ways to switch things up:
- Make it Vegan: Substitute cashew cream for heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost!
- Go Green: Mix in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, and toss them together right before serving to keep everything fresh!
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but the cream may separate once frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you freeze it, just reheat gently while stirring.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
