Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, penne); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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This creamy tomato garlic pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. It combines a rich, creamy tomato sauce with aromatic garlic and herbs, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

A white shallow bowl holds a pile of rigatoni pasta covered in thick, creamy orange sauce with green herb flecks mixed in. At the center, there is a small white ball of fresh cheese topped with red chili flakes. The pasta is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese, small chopped green herbs, and cracked black pepper throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, penne)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and oregano. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
Step 5: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Remove from heat and serve garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for a spicy kick.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Swap dried herbs for fresh basil and oregano if available, adding fresh herbs just before serving.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables to make this dish more hearty.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of rigatoni pasta coated in a thick, creamy orange-red sauce with visible flecks of green herbs and spices. The pasta is arranged in a white bowl with a blue-rimmed edge, and the sauce covers every piece, giving it a rich texture. On top of the pasta are small pieces of grated white cheese and bits of herbs, adding contrast to the vibrant sauce. A gold fork lifts a bite of the pasta, showing several rigatoni tubes stacked closely together with sauce dripping slightly. The background is a soft, plain white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, but the sauce may be a bit chunkier. You can blend diced tomatoes slightly if you prefer a smoother texture.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta that holds sauce well, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, works great. Choose your favorite shape and cook it al dente for the best texture.