Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Start with pantry staples and fresh garlic to make a silky tomato-and-garlic sauce that clings to every strand of pasta; for a one-pan shortcut idea, see the practical one-pot creamy garlic pasta adaptation that keeps cleanup minimal.

Ingredients you’ll need

• Dry pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne) — 12 ounces.
• Olive oil and unsalted butter — for depth and silkiness.
• Fresh garlic — 4–6 cloves, thinly sliced or minced for a pronounced garlic flavor.
• Canned crushed tomatoes — one 28-ounce can for body and sweetness.
• Heavy cream or cream cheese — 1/2 to 3/4 cup to achieve that creamy texture while balancing acidity.
• Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes — to taste.
• Fresh basil or parsley and grated Parmesan — for finishing.

These components focus on delivering a rich tomato base and pronounced garlic notes that define the dish.

Step-by-step stovetop method

1. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil and a small pat of butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, simmer 6–8 minutes to concentrate flavor. Season and add red pepper flakes if using.
4. Stir in cream or a spoonful of cream cheese until smooth, then thin with reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce cling.
5. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce over low heat, coating thoroughly for 1–2 minutes. Finish with grated cheese and fresh herbs.

Each step enhances the tomato flavor while letting garlic remain forward and natural in the sauce.

How to get the texture right fast

Use a combination of cream and pasta water for an emulsified sauce that stays glossy without being greasy. If you want a quicker creamy finish, try the 10-minute cream-cheese shortcut explained at 10-minute cream cheese pasta, then adapt the tomato and garlic profile from the stovetop method above.

Protein and vegetable additions that work

Lightly seared chicken, shrimp, or roasted mushrooms pair well without overpowering the garlic-tomato base. For a balanced weeknight plate, add cooked chicken tossed into the sauce just before serving; for direction on a garlic-forward chicken pairing, see this healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta for inspiration and ingredient proportions.

Quick serving and storage tips

Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2–3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s silkiness.

Conclusion

For a tested variation with a simple ingredient list and clear steps, check the Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta – Salt & Lavender recipe for ideas on technique and flavor balance. For another home-cook perspective focusing on texture and seasoning, read the Creamy Tomato Pasta – by Carolina Gelen – SCRAPS piece for tips you can adapt to your own garlic-forward sauce.