If you're craving a pasta dish that bursts with flavor, this garlicky pasta with rich tomato cream sauce will become your go-to dinner. The creamy tomato sauce perfectly balances the robust garlic notes, making every bite a comforting delight you'll want to savor again and again.
Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, delivering restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. You'll love how the sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating a luscious meal that's both hearty and elegant.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy tomato sauce with a bold garlic punch
- Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
- Ready in under 30 minutes for quick weeknight dinners
- Versatile enough to pair with chicken, shrimp, or veggies
- Comforting and satisfying with a touch of elegance
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and pantry staples to prepare the garlicky pasta with rich tomato cream sauce.
- 12 ounces dried fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
How to Make Garlicky Pasta With Rich Tomato Cream Sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add the sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper. Stir and let simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and butter. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and is rich and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Remove from heat, stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil leaves for a fresh touch.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh garlic and good-quality crushed tomatoes for the richest flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
- Don’t overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness; just sauté until fragrant.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash more heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Fresh basil added at the end brightens the sauce with herbal notes.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
You can also freeze the sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. Cook fresh pasta to serve alongside for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes, grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu can be added to make the dish more substantial.
How spicy is the sauce with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that enhances the flavor without overpowering it. You can omit or adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.