Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta — Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta: it was a rainy Tuesday, I had a tired week behind me, and a handful of ripe tomatoes in the fridge. A simple skillet and a few pantry staples turned into a bowl of comfort that felt like a warm hug. Since then, this dish has become my go-to for quick dinners, date nights at home, and whenever I want something cozy that still tastes special. Pasta with garlic and tomato has deep roots in Mediterranean kitchens — simple ingredients elevated by technique — and this creamy version is a modern, indulgent twist that still honors that rustic tradition. If you love garlic-forward, comforting dinners, you might also enjoy this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a protein-rich pairing.

Who is this recipe for?

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, beginner cooks looking for a fail-safe pasta, and anyone who loves a garlicky, creamy tomato sauce.

Brief overview of the core ingredients:

This dish combines 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine, 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced), 1 cup heavy cream, 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced), 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped), and salt and pepper to taste to create a simple, rich, and satisfying pasta.

Tools & Ingredients

Tools

Large pot — for boiling pasta safely and evenly.
Colander — to drain the pasta without losing it.
Large skillet — to prepare and simmer the sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula — to stir without scratching cookware.
Tongs — to toss pasta in the sauce for even coating.
Chef’s knife and cutting board — to prep tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Measuring cups and spoons — to keep flavors balanced.

Ingredients (with short benefits)

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine — versatile pasta that soaks up sauce well.
1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced) — bright acidity and fresh flavor to balance the cream.
1 cup heavy cream — adds richness and silky texture to the sauce.
4 cloves fresh garlic (minced) — boosts flavor and adds aromatic depth.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil — healthy fats and a fruity base for sautéing.
1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped) — fresh herbal lift and color contrast.
Salt and pepper to taste — simple seasoning that enhances all flavors.

If you want more cheesy handheld options to enjoy alongside your pasta, try these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Please sauté the minced garlic until golden brown and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for about 5 minutes so the tomatoes break down and the flavors concentrate.
Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is well blended and warmed through.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce with tongs until each strand is evenly coated and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve immediately topped with chopped fresh basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

Freezing cream-based pasta sauces is not ideal because cream can separate when thawed. For best results, freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately or freeze only the tomato component without cream, then add fresh cream when reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute whole milk mixed with a little butter (about 3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter) for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich. Greek yogurt can also be used off-heat to finish, but temper it first to avoid curdling.

Q: Can I add protein or vegetables?

Yes — grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully. For a quick add-in, stir in baby spinach or frozen peas in the last minute of cooking.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thin?

Simmer gently to reduce excess liquid, or add a small sprinkle of pasta cooking water to help emulsify if the sauce is too thick. Cornstarch slurry can be used sparingly as a last resort.

Tips & Tricks

Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor: summer tomatoes or vine-ripened produce yield a sweeter, brighter sauce.
Don’t overcook the garlic: sauté until just golden to avoid bitterness.
Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining: a splash helps the cream and tomato sauce cling to the pasta for a glossy finish.
Finish off low and slow: after adding cream, keep heat low to prevent the sauce from separating.

For a twist on flavors and an easy way to combine pasta with vegetables and protein, see this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini & Broccoli.

Conclusion

If you want more variations or inspiration for creamy tomato pasta, check out these helpful recipes: Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe – Maja’s Recipes, Super Easy Creamy Tomato Pasta • Salt & Lavender, and Creamy Tomato Pasta – by Carolina Gelen – SCRAPS.

Enjoy this cozy bowl of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta — serve it with a simple salad, a glass of wine, and share with someone you love.
Always add

tag after Directions.