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Creamy tomato garlic pasta dish garnished with fresh basil

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

A comforting and easy pasta dish featuring a silky sauce made with diced tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essentials
  • 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta Choose your preferred pasta shape.
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced Fresh garlic is essential for flavor.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar) Canned tomatoes provide dependable flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Makes the sauce rich and smooth.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for better melting.
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil For sautéing the garlic.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasoning.
Optional add-ons
  • 1 handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped For a bright, herbal finish.
  • to taste Red pepper flakes For a bit of heat.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Sauté with the garlic for extra depth.
  • 2 cups spinach or kale Stir in at the end until wilted.
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans To make the dish heartier.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and open the can of tomatoes.
Cooking
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant and light golden.
  4. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and simmer for 4-5 minutes.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and let it warm gently for 1.5-2 minutes.
  6. Add grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper, adjusting with reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. Combine pasta with sauce in the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
Serving
  1. Dish the pasta into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped herbs.

Notes

Best served immediately. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.