This dish mixes ripe tomatoes, garlic, and cream for a smooth sauce. The garlic gives a warm flavor. Fresh basil lifts the taste at the end. The pasta coats well in the creamy tomato sauce. It is easy for cooks of any level.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is quick, tasty, and comforting. You can make it with few ingredients and little time. It works for weeknight meals or when you want something warm and simple. If you like trying different pasta shapes or pairings, check this Creamy Garlic Pasta.
How to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients :
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
A quick and comforting pasta dish with a smooth creamy tomato sauce, garlic, and fresh basil.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
How to serve Tomato Garlic Pasta
Serve the pasta hot. Add extra basil on top for color and fresh taste. Grated Parmesan or a shake of black pepper works well. Pair with a simple green salad or toasted bread.
How to store Tomato Garlic Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature before storing. Put it in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Tips to make Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Do not burn the garlic; cook until light golden.
- Keep the heat low when you add the cream. Stir slowly until smooth.
- Save a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Tips to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go.
- Use fresh basil at the end for bright flavor.
- If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variations
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. For a green boost, try adding cooked spinach into the sauce. You can also swap spaghetti for fettuccine or any short pasta you like. For a similar tomato pasta flavor, try this Creamy Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes?
A: Yes. Use diced canned tomatoes and reduce simmer time a little.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a plant-based cream like coconut or cashew cream. The flavor will change but it still works.
Q: How do I stop the sauce from becoming too thin?
A: Simmer a bit longer to reduce it. Or add a small sprinkle of grated cheese to thicken.
Q: Can I add protein?
A: Yes. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans mix in well.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is simple and quick. It uses common ingredients and gives a creamy, garlicky flavor. Follow the steps for a tasty meal any night of the week.
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