This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta comes together in about 30 minutes and is all prepared in just one pot for a easy weeknight dinner that your family will love! You can switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or use it as a way to clean out the fridge, it’s the perfect solution for those nights when you want good food without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients Breakdown
- 8 oz Pasta (Penne or Fettuccine)
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 1 Can (14 oz) Diced Tomatoes
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
- Fresh Basil for Garnish
- Parmesan Cheese, Grated (Optional)
How to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Alright, let’s dive into it! I promise, this is going to become your new go-to recipe for quick meals on busy nights.
Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, don’t rinse!
Sauté the Garlic : In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. You want it just golden, not brown!
Add the Tomatoes : Toss in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and stir. Let them simmer for a few minutes, add that Italian seasoning, and let those flavors meld.
Pour in the Cream : Now it’s time for the heavy cream! Pour it in, stirring well to combine. Keep an eye on this; you want it to come to a light simmer, then lower the heat!
Season : Add in salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the seasoning! Let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. The colors will deepen, and trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Toss with Pasta : Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. You want every single piece to bask in that creamy goodness!
Serve! Serve hot, garnished with lots of fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you desire. Enjoy immediately and soak in the smiles!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
The magic of this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is that it comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying.
One Pot Wonder
Minimal cleanup required! You’ll only use one big skillet and a pot for the pasta, making it easy-peasy, right? The best part is, everything cooks in the same pan, soaking up tons of flavors.
Comfort Food at Its Finest
This pasta is loaded with tons of flavor, and the creamy texture is just comforting, especially on a chilly evening. Comfort food at its best!
Customizable
Use whatever ingredients you have! Have leftover vegetables? Toss them in! Broccoli, spinach, or even some chicken would be great additions to bulk it up.
Kid-Friendly
Your picky eaters will love this! It’s not only creamy and rich, but it’s also familiar and comforting, like a warm hug from your favorite person.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this pasta with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to really complete the meal. You could even serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a fuller dinner.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just heat up in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of extra cream or milk to loosen it up.
Reheating:
For the best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk to help revive that creamy texture.
Freezer Friendly:
While I generally don’t recommend freezing creamy pasta dishes due to potential texture issues, if you have leftovers, you can freeze them. Just make sure to thaw in the fridge and reheat gently!
If you loved this creamy tomato garlic pasta, be sure to check out my Blue Ribbon Chicken, my Gordon Ramsay Beef Stroganoff, or my Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Economical and Budget-Friendly
It uses affordable ingredients that you probably already have at home! This makes it easy to whip up a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and have lunch sorted for the week! Just store in portions, and you’re good to go!
A Family Favorite
This dish has been a crowd-pleaser in my home. My kids actually ask for it! And let me tell you, it’s not often I get my pickiest eater asking for seconds.
Loaded with Flavor
The deep, savory tomato sauce combined with the creaminess? Honestly, it’s a knockout. It’s bright, comforting, and so satisfying!
I truly adore this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta, and let me tell you, I’m a real sucker for easy meals that pack in lots of flavor. Give it a try!
And guess what? You’ll probably find yourself making it over and over again, because it’s just that good. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a cozy night in with this delicious weeknight meal! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, don’t rinse.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Toss in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and stir. Let them simmer for a few minutes—add that Italian seasoning, and let those flavors meld.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a light simmer, then lower the heat.
- Add in salt and pepper to taste, and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.