Description
This Easy & Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of cream for a luscious, velvety sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic & Tomatoes
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and butter.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water.
- Stir in fresh basil.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Add Protein: Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
- Make it Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast.
- Extra Herbs: Add oregano, thyme, or parsley.
- Roasted Tomatoes: Roast tomatoes before adding to deepen flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: creamy tomato pasta, garlic pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, homemade pasta sauce