This Easy & Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta is a simple delight! With juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for a quick meal that feels special.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy goodness? I often make this when I want something comforting without all the fuss. Grab a fork and enjoy every cheesy bite!
It’s so easy to whip up! Just cook the pasta, sauté some garlic and fresh tomatoes, mix in the cream, and you’re ready to feast. Simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rigatoni or penne for this dish. They hold the sauce nicely. If you don’t have those, any pasta like fusilli or farfalle works too. Gluten-free pasta is a great alternative if you need it!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used (1/8 tsp per clove), but fresh really elevates the dish. Don’t skip this step!
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes make a difference. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes. It’ll alter the taste slightly, but still delicious!
Heavy Cream: The cream gives richness. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just remember that plant-based alternatives can vary in taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes great. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) work well too!
How Do I Cook the Pasta Just Right?
Cooking pasta to the perfect “al dente” texture is essential for this recipe. It should be tender yet firm to the bite. Follow these tips for success:
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add your pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package’s suggested time.
- Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water to adjust your sauce later if needed.
This little trick ensures your pasta stays flavorful and holds onto that creamy sauce beautifully!
How to Make Easy & Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a little bit of the pasta water for later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Now, toss the diced tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and start to release their lovely juices.
4. Make it Creamy:
Once the tomatoes are ready, stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the cheese to melt and meld into a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. If it seems a bit too thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. This adds a nice freshness to your dish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy fresh tomato garlic pasta is ready! Serve it hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Sit back, enjoy your meal, and relish the flavors!
## FAQ for Easy & Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery sauce. Use about 2-3 cups of canned tomatoes for a similar flavor and consistency.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! To make it even more filling, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. They’ll add flavor and nutrients without compromising the dish.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and flour (2 parts milk to 1 part flour). Just whisk them together before adding to the pan. This will create a slightly lighter sauce while still keeping it creamy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or additional cream to help revive the sauce’s creaminess!
