Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta (Fast & Easy)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or any preferred shape); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes; 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, to taste); Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Creamy tomato garlic pasta is one of my favorite quick meals when I want something cozy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. It combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the bold flavor of garlic and tangy tomatoes—all tossed with tender pasta for the perfect bite every time. It’s simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples I always have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers creamy, comforting flavor without needing a long ingredient list or tons of time. The garlic and tomato base gives the sauce a bold, slightly sweet flavor, and the cream smooths it all out into a velvety finish. It’s an easy go-to for weeknights, and I can dress it up with veggies, chicken, or shrimp when I want something extra. Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta (Fast & Easy)

Ingredients

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

Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or any shape I like)
Olive oil or butter
Garlic, minced
Tomato paste or canned crushed tomatoes
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. I save about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
I sauté the garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute—being careful not to let it brown.
I stir in tomato paste (or crushed tomatoes) and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
I lower the heat and add the cream, stirring until smooth. I let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until thickened.
I season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if I want a little kick.
I toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
I stir in Parmesan and top with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 5 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in 25 minutes or less.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for more veggies. I’ve also tossed in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier. If I want a dairy-free version, I use a splash of coconut milk and skip the cheese.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to bring back the creamy texture. Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta (Fast & Easy)

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, I’ve used whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. The sauce is slightly thinner but still creamy and flavorful.

What kind of pasta works best?

I like using short shapes like penne or rigatoni, but fettuccine and spaghetti also work well for a more classic feel.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely—I use plant-based cream or coconut milk and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative. It still turns out rich and satisfying.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Letting it simmer a few extra minutes usually thickens it. I also stir in more Parmesan or a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust the texture.

What herbs go best with this?

Fresh basil is my favorite for this dish, but parsley or thyme works well too. Dried Italian seasoning is a good shortcut if I don’t have fresh herbs.

Conclusion

Creamy tomato garlic pasta is one of those quick, satisfying dishes that always hits the spot. With its rich, garlicky tomato flavor and velvety texture, it’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an easy meal that feels a little special. I love how fast it comes together—and how good it tastes every single time.