Name: Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

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This Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is my go-to dish when I want something quick, flavorful, and comforting. With a rich tomato base, a hint of garlic, and a smooth, velvety cream sauce, it’s the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. Whether I’m cooking for myself or hosting friends, this pasta always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly this pasta comes together with just a handful of ingredients. It’s the kind of meal I can whip up on a busy weeknight but still feel like I’m treating myself. The combination of tomatoes and garlic is classic, and when I stir in cream, it transforms into something truly luxurious. Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, I drain it and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant—about 1 minute.
I pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
I let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to blend.
I stir in the heavy cream and let it warm through, then I add the cooked pasta and toss it all together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
Finally, I mix in some grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so I can usually have it on the table in just 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra texture and flavor. If I want more protein, I stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. I’ve also used coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version that still tastes great.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too—I just stir halfway through to make sure it heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, I’ve used both, and they work well. Crushed tomatoes give a chunkier texture, while tomato sauce creates a smoother result.

What kind of cream should I use?

I prefer heavy cream for richness, but I’ve also used half-and-half or even milk in a pinch—it just makes the sauce a bit lighter.

Can I make this pasta vegan?

Definitely. I swap the cream for coconut milk or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How can I make it spicier?

I add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. It gives the creamy sauce a nice kick.

What’s the best pasta shape for this sauce?

I like spaghetti or penne because they hold the sauce well, but really, any pasta I have in the pantry works.

Conclusion

Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish I love making again and again. It’s rich but simple, quick but satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Whether I’m enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, it’s always a comforting plate of happiness that brings big flavor with minimal effort.