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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a comforting, quick dish made with tender pasta coated in a rich, garlicky tomato cream sauce. Simple pantry ingredients come together in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal perfect for any night.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to deepen flavor.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency.
  6. Top with chopped basil or parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for protein.
  • Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Stir in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Parmesan can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/creamy-tomato-garlic-pasta/