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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

A comforting and quick pasta dish with a rich, creamy tomato sauce that's perfect for the whole family.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 620
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes fire-roasted gives an extra depth of flavor
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with plant-based alternative for vegan
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar To balance the acidity of the tomatoes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus more for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish Optional

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add dried basil and sugar, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. Slowly add heavy cream into the tomato mixture, stirring continuously, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually if needed.
  6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and black pepper to taste, and let it cook for another minute.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil and sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Notes

This recipe allows for various substitutions: add veggies like spinach or mushrooms, chicken or shrimp for protein, or use gluten-free pasta as needed.