Description
This creamy tomato garlic pasta is a simple yet indulgent 30-minute dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Al dente spaghetti or fettuccine is tossed in a velvety sauce made from fresh ripe tomatoes, garlic sautéed in olive oil, and rich heavy cream. Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note, while an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese brings savory depth. Easy to customize with protein additions or a gluten-free pasta substitution, this flavorful Italian-inspired dish satisfies cravings with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
Sauce
- 1 cup fresh ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 40 seconds, stirring continuously, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the diced fresh tomatoes to the skillet along with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low and gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well until all the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Add grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired for extra richness and flavor.
- Optional Serving Suggestions & Variations: Pair with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Add sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or shrimp to include protein. Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a mild heat or extra Parmesan for added cheesiness.
Notes
- Use fresh ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness in the sauce.
- Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain texture when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper gradually to suit your taste.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Try adding fresh garlic basil pesto for an additional herbal flavor twist.
- This dish reheats well, but add a splash of cream or pasta water when reheating to loosen the sauce.
