Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 cloves Garlic (minced); 3 cups Cherry Tomatoes (halved); 4 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 cup Dry White Wine; 1 tsp White Sugar; 1 tsp Chili Flakes; 2 tbsp Tomato Paste; 2 cups Heavy Cream ((or alternative milk with a 1:1 swap)); 1 tbsp Flour; 1/2 cup Chopped Parsley; 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta (cooked al dente); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Sugar; Salt & Pepper (to taste); Freshly Grated Parmesan (optional)

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a dish that warms the heart and excites the taste buds. It combines the richness of heavy cream with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and garlic. This recipe is simple to make and can be put together in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a delightful meal that everyone will love.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe is a fantastic option for several reasons. First, it uses ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for anyone to recreate at home. The dish is also straightforward and does not require advanced cooking skills, which is great for beginners. Moreover, the combination of creamy sauce with garlic and tomatoes is simply delightful, providing a burst of flavor in every bite.

Additionally, this pasta dish is flexible. You can modify it to suit your taste. Whether you want to add more vegetables, kick it up with some spice, or incorporate protein, the options are endless. Plus, it’s a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Lastly, the creamy texture paired with the acidity of the tomatoes creates a harmony that keeps you coming back for more. It’s comfort food at its best.

HOW TO MAKE Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Making Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful process that anyone can follow. The steps are quite simple. Let’s break it down.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To cook this creamy pasta, you will need:

Large skillet or frying pan
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Knife for chopping
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Small bowl for the slurry mixing
Serving dish or plates

Ingredients You’ll Need:

8 Garlic Cloves (minced)
3 cups Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
4 tbsp Olive Oil
1 cup Dry White Wine
1 tsp White Sugar
1 tsp Chili Flakes
2 tbsp Tomato Paste
2 cups Heavy Cream (or the alternative milk with a 1:1 swap)
1 tbsp Flour
1/2 cup Chopped Parsley
8 oz Rigatoni Pasta (cooked al dente)
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Sugar
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Freshly Grated Parmesan (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Prep the Ingredients: Start by mincing the garlic and slicing the cherry tomatoes in half. This will save time later and ensure everything is ready when you need it.

Sauté the Garlic: Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and half a teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the garlic becomes golden and fragrant, which takes about 5 minutes.

Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan, along with another half teaspoon of salt. Sauté for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their delightful juices.

Deglaze the Pan: Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds flavor. Stir in 1 teaspoon of chili flakes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing everything well.

Add the Cream: Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream and stir it. In a small bowl, whisk 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce to thicken it, cooking for 5 to 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Season & Combine: Add in 1/2 cup of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Now, mix in the cooked rigatoni pasta, ensuring it remains al dente to avoid overcooking.

Finish Cooking: Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes. After this, remove from heat, cover with a lid, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together nicely.

Serve: Garnish the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan, a bit more parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Now it’s ready to enjoy!

HOW TO SERVE Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Serving Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is simple. You can plate it directly onto individual plates or serve it family-style in a large dish. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

For added texture, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan on top or drizzle a bit of extra olive oil for a touch of richness. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding extra chili flakes on top.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as it might thicken in the fridge.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Place the cooled pasta in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for about 2 to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta can be served with various accompaniments. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely, as does garlic bread or baguette slices.

For protein lovers, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top of the pasta. You can also think about roasted or sautéed vegetables as a great side.

A glass of dry white wine works well here, complementing the flavors of the dish and enhancing the dining experience.

VARIATIONS

There are several ways to customize Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta to suit your taste:

Vegetable Additions: You can add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor and nutrients.
Protein Options: Including chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage can make this dish heartier.
Vegan Version: To make a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or another non-dairy milk and skip the cheese.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh basil or oregano can add a fresh component, and using garlic powder can enhance the garlic flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
- Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them up and consider adding a little sugar to balance the acidity.
What can I use instead of white wine?
- If you prefer not to use wine, chicken or vegetable broth can work as a great substitute.
Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
- You can add extra chili flakes or even include diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Preparing ahead can make cooking much easier. You can prep the garlic by mincing it and store it in the fridge. Slicing the tomatoes can also be done ahead of time.

If you want to make the sauce ahead, prepare the garlic and tomatoes and store them separately until you are ready to cook. On the day of serving, simply cook the pasta and combine everything together.

Making Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta ahead of time is simple and will save you time when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.

With this easy recipe and these tips, you will have a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy, coming together in no time!

This rich and flavorful pasta pairs beautifully with our creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta for those who want to compare different creamy pasta variations. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve it alongside our best cheesy garlic bread recipe to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. If you love garlic-forward dishes, our sticky garlic chicken noodles offers another garlic-packed option that’s equally satisfying and comforting for weeknight dinners.