This is a simple, creamy tomato garlic pasta. It is quick and full of flavor. You can make it on weeknights or when you want a warm, easy meal. If you like creamy pasta bakes, try this creamy pasta bake for another idea.
Why make this recipe
This dish is fast. It uses few ingredients. The sauce is rich and garlicky. You can make it with pantry items and fresh tomatoes and basil for a bright taste.
How to prepare Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
- Serve with chopped basil and grated Parmesan if you like.
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
Steps:
Always add
tag before FAQ.
- 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.
How to serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Serve hot. Add a little grated Parmesan on top. Pair with a simple green salad or toasted bread. A glass of white wine fits well.
How to store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Let the pasta cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store 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 Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta perfectly
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Do not burn the garlic; cook until light gold.
- Save some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Heat the cream slowly; do not boil hard after adding cream.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
Variations (if possible)
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for protein.
- Stir in spinach or kale for more greens.
- Use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter sauce.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce (sauce will be thinner).
FAQ
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Yes. Use one cup of drained canned diced tomatoes. The taste will be slightly different but still good.
Q: How do I make it dairy-free?
A: Use a plant-based cream (like oat or cashew cream) and skip the Parmesan.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can make the sauce ahead and store it. Cook the pasta fresh and mix before serving for best texture.

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful creamy tomato garlic pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
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
Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Do not burn the garlic; cook until light gold. Save some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian

