Name: 30 Minutes Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) pasta (such as spaghetti or penne); 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 (28 ounce) can (794g) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: Cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein

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Ever craved a comforting bowl of pasta that’s ready in a snap? This 30 Minutes Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta is your answer! Silky textures meet bold garlic and tomato flavors in this simple yet satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and delicious meal to impress. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Let’s dive into the magic!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta

This recipe isn’t just about speed; it’s about delivering incredible flavor with minimal effort. Here are some reasons why you’ll keep coming back to this dish:

Ready in 30 Minutes: From prep to plate, it’s incredibly fast.
Rich and Creamy Texture: The heavy cream creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
Bold Garlic Flavor: The garlic is prominent, yet perfectly balanced.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Easy Cleanup: One-pan cooking minimizes the mess.
Customizable: Add protein or veggies to your liking.
Irresistible Aroma: Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Simple for Beginners: Easy enough for your first cooking adventure.

It’s far less fussy than traditional pasta dishes, ensuring a delightful experience every time.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful pasta dish. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples!

1 pound (450g) pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
1 (28 ounce) can (794g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: Cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein

For the best results, choose high-quality crushed tomatoes. Fresh basil from a farmers’ market will elevate the aroma. Lightly toast the red pepper flakes in the olive oil to unlock their full flavor potential.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Easy One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta – A simpler, even quicker version with fewer steps!

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Pot: For cooking the pasta. Make sure it’s big enough to hold plenty of water.
Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
Large Skillet: A 12-inch skillet is ideal for making the sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and combining it with the pasta.

A microplane can be handy for grating the Parmesan cheese finely. If you don’t have a skillet, a large saucepan can work in a pinch.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy

This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious creamy garlic tomato pasta. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your personal taste!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold that can help bind the sauce to the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Simmering the sauce helps to meld the flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help create a silky, emulsified sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.

CHECK OUT: Garlic Roasted Chickpea and Tomato Pasta – A delightful vegetarian twist with roasted flavors!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your creamy garlic tomato pasta is a culinary triumph:

Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the sauce.
Use fresh garlic: It provides the best flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
Simmer the sauce gently: Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to spatter and reduce too quickly.
Taste and adjust the seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential for balancing the flavors.
Reserve enough pasta water: It’s your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

A little grated lemon zest can also brighten up the flavors of the dish.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Vegetarian: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
Vegan: Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for extra protein.

For a richer flavor, you can use sun-dried tomatoes in addition to the crushed tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta

This pasta dish is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:

Garlic Bread: For soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Roasted Asparagus: A simple and healthy side dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A light and refreshing beverage to complement the richness of the pasta.

This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Health Benefits

This creamy garlic tomato pasta offers several nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. The Parmesan cheese provides calcium and protein. While the dish contains heavy cream, using it in moderation can still be part of a balanced diet. Adding vegetables or lean protein can further enhance its nutritional value.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover pasta:

Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Ensure the pasta is cooled completely before storing it to prevent bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Prevent the Sauce From Being Too Watery?

Simmer the sauce for a longer time to allow it to thicken. If it’s still too watery, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce while simmering.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce. Sauté them along with the garlic for the best flavor.

How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also use a spicy tomato sauce for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrate: 55g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 15g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise information, use a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Close-up of a forkful of garlic tomato pasta.

Craving more simple and satisfying recipes? Check out these delectable dishes:

Tasty Roasted Vegetable Pasta Recipe – A flavorful and healthy pasta dish with roasted vegetables.
Creamy Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew – A hearty and comforting stew perfect for chilly evenings.
Broccoli Chickpea Pasta with Garlic Olive Oil – A simple and nutritious pasta dish with broccoli and chickpeas.

Conclusion

This 30 Minutes Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta is fast, flavorful, and sure to please a crowd. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your delicious creations! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

30 Minutes Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta