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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 127 reviews

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a quick and flavorful lunch option featuring al dente penne or fettuccine tossed in a rich tomato and garlic cream sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese for extra indulgence. It’s easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta

Sauce

  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden brown, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes with their juices to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Add Cream: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture bubble gently for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  5. Incorporate Cheese and Season: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
  7. Serve: Serve the creamy tomato garlic pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency for a creamier texture.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
  • This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.