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Creamy garlic tomato pasta, ready in 30 minutes, showcases the delicious and easy weeknight meal recipe.

Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta recipe is a quick and easy comfort meal that's ready in just 30 minutes. It features a rich and flavorful tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh basil, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Garlic press or knife
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to caramelize the tomato paste.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is heated through and creamy.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water at a time if the sauce is too thick, until the pasta is well coated.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use high-quality crushed tomatoes. To prevent the cream from curdling, make sure the heat is on low when adding it to the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk if needed. You can also add a splash of vodka to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.