Description
A rich and creamy tomato garlic pasta recipe that combines al dente pasta with a flavorful sauce made from sautéed garlic, juicy tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, garnished with fresh basil for an elegant and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to slightly thicken.
- Add Cream: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce become creamy and smooth.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts completely and the sauce turns velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce, stirring well to coat every strand or piece evenly.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. If desired, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little pasta water if it becomes too thick.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- Fresh basil adds a bright, fresh flavor—consider adding a few leaves into the sauce as it simmers for more herbaceous depth.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after combining with the sauce.
