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The Best Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta

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A quick, comforting pasta dish featuring a creamy garlic‑tomato sauce — rich, tangy, and velvety — served over your favorite pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (about 14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half‑and‑half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional additions: baby spinach, mushrooms, sun‑dried tomatoes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled bacon

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds — careful not to burn).
  3. Add crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree) to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  4. Stir in heavy cream (or half‑and‑half). Let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving. Add optional toppings or mix-ins if desired (spinach, mushrooms, grilled chicken, etc.). Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream (though the sauce will be less rich).
  • Add baby spinach or arugula at the end for a fresh, healthy touch.
  • You can toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
  • If you like a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/the-best-creamy-garlic-tomato-pasta/