If you’re craving a simple yet irresistibly flavorful pasta dish, this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. With just a handful of fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a touch of creamy indulgence, this pasta comes together quickly and delivers mouthwatering results every single time. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both comforting and a little special, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends without fuss. Trust me, once you try this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe, it will become one of your go-to favorites for a fast, delicious meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two views of a gray pan on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is melted butter with small pieces of minced garlic bubbling in the pan, which has a smooth dark interior and a metal handle. On the right, the pan contains a mix of creamy white sauce and bright red tomato sauce layered on top of the garlic butter base, with visible seasoning like black pepper and some dried herbs sprinkled on the sauces. The sauces spread evenly inside the pan, creating a colorful contrast on the dark surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s truly exciting about this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe is how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one plays an essential role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make the dish shine from the very first bite.

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine: Choose your favorite pasta type; its texture will beautifully absorb the sauce.
1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced): Fresh, juicy tomatoes add vibrant color and natural sweetness to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess that softens the acidity of tomatoes for a silky finish.
4 cloves fresh garlic (minced): The star aromatics that infuses the dish with warm, savory depth.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps sauté the garlic while imparting a rich, fruity undertone.
1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped): Offers a peppery, herbal brightness that truly elevates the pasta.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and bring all flavors together.

How to Make Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Begin by boiling generously salted water in a large pot. Cooking the pasta until al dente is key because you want it to have just the right bite to complement the creamy, rich sauce. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside, giving it a moment before it dives into the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat in a spacious skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook until it turns a gorgeous golden brown. Be attentive here—the garlic should be fragrant but not burnt, as this step layers the pasta with that inviting garlicky warmth you love.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes

Next, toss the diced ripe tomatoes into the skillet with the garlic, along with salt and pepper. Let them simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This cooks down the tomatoes just right, softening them into a lightly chunky, flavorful base that’s equally fresh and comforting.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Lower the heat before slowly stirring in the heavy cream. This addition brings the sauce together, creating a rich, silky texture that beautifully balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes. Stir until everything is well combined and smoothly blended.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, introduce the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until each strand is coated in that creamy, garlicky tomato goodness. This is where the magic happens—every forkful promises a perfect melody of flavors and textures.

How to Serve Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

A black pan filled with penne pasta coated in a creamy red sauce, showing reddish chunks mixed evenly throughout the noodles. The top of the pasta is sprinkled with shredded light yellow cheese and small pieces of fresh green basil leaves scattered over it. There are also visible bits of black pepper adding texture and contrast. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh toppings make all the difference here. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top right before serving to add vibrant color and a burst of herbal freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese will add a salty, nutty layer that complements the sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread that echoes the flavors in the sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also offer a lovely contrast in texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with whole basil leaves or cherry tomato halves to make it look extra inviting. You can also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil or balsamic reduction for an elegant finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tomato Garlic Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it cools, so a quick stir with a splash of water or cream will revive its creamy consistency when reheating.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta is possible but best done with just the sauce for optimal texture. Store the cooled sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little cream or olive oil if the sauce seems too thick. Stir frequently to ensure everything heats evenly without drying out or sticking to the pan.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh tomatoes provide a bright, pure flavor, high-quality canned diced tomatoes work well too, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season. Just be sure to drain excess liquid if needed to maintain the sauce’s richness.

Is there a way to make this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and skip any cheese garnishes or use vegan Parmesan substitutes. The olive oil and garlic provide plenty of richness and flavor to keep it satisfying.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta option instead of traditional spaghetti or fettuccine. The sauce remains the same and tastes fantastic regardless of the pasta base.

What wine pairs well with this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe?

A light to medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully. The acidity in the wine complements the tomatoes and balances the richness of the cream, making every bite and sip a delight.

How can I add protein to make this a more filling meal?

Adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy pan-fried tofu can be great ways to incorporate protein without overpowering the delicate tomato and garlic flavors. Toss them in at the final step before serving.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe enough for those evenings when you want something straightforward yet truly satisfying. Its fresh ingredients and creamy sauce strike the perfect balance of comforting and bright flavors. Seriously, give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite pasta dish that’s always ready in under 30 minutes!

Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe

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Author: Chef
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

A creamy and flavorful Tomato Garlic Pasta recipe that combines al dente spaghetti with a rich tomato and garlic sauce, enhanced with fresh basil and a touch of heavy cream. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

Sauce

1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown, being careful not to burn it for a fragrant base.
Add Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften.
Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is well blended and creamy, creating a rich texture.
Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy tomato garlic sauce.
Serve: Plate the pasta, then top with freshly chopped basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and freshness.

Notes

For best results, use ripe, flavorful tomatoes to enhance the sauce taste.
Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
Parmesan cheese is optional but adds depth and richness to the dish.
To make this dish lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Ensure the pasta is well drained to keep the sauce creamy without thinning it.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian