Looking for a pasta dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day? Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is the answer. It’s bold, creamy, garlicky, and ready in just 15 minutes — making it perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but craving something truly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or just treating yourself, this dish is a cozy comfort meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat milk for a lighter version)
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated parmesan (for serving)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Done in about 15 minutes, start to finish.
- Minimal ingredients: Most of them are pantry staples.
- Creamy and rich: The tomato paste and heavy cream combine to create a velvety sauce.
- Garlic lovers dream: The garlic flavor shines in every bite.
- Customizable: Add veggies, proteins, or spice it up to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil Your Pasta
Fill a large pot with water, bring it to a rolling boil, and stir in 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water — it’s key to making your sauce clingy and silky!
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter until melted. Add in the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant — don’t let it brown!
3. Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the paste slightly and deepens the flavor. You’ll notice the color change into a darker red, and that’s when you know it’s working its magic.
4. Season It Up
Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy). Stir well so everything is evenly combined.
5. Time for the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir until everything is smooth and combined. This is where the sauce starts to come together into a luscious, creamy coating.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss in your drained pasta and pour in that reserved pasta water. Mix well so the sauce coats every piece of pasta. Simmer for 1–2 minutes more until the sauce slightly thickens and clings perfectly to the noodles.
7. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta and shower with grated parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Pasta Every Time
Save Your Pasta Water
It might seem like a throwaway, but that starchy water is liquid gold. It helps emulsify the sauce and gives it the right texture without needing extra cream.
Use Fresh Garlic and Onion
Fresh aromatics make a huge difference in flavor compared to powders or pre-minced versions. You want that deep, authentic flavor!
Don’t Overcook the Garlic
Once it starts browning, it turns bitter. Cook until just fragrant — no more than 30 seconds.
Use Good Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is the heart of this recipe. Choose one that’s rich and thick for the best results.
Cream Substitute? Try This.
If you don’t have heavy cream, whole milk or half-and-half can work in a pinch — though it’ll be slightly less rich.
Optional Add-Ins & Swaps
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Cheesy Twist: Melt in some mozzarella or goat cheese for added richness.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream alternatives like oat or cashew cream.
Storage Tips
This pasta is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. It’s not ideal for freezing because the cream can separate, but you can try it if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a one-pan wonder that brings gourmet flavor with minimal effort. It’s comfort food at its finest — rich, creamy, garlicky, and just a touch spicy. Perfect for when you want something simple but satisfying.
Whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a planned pasta night, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s totally customizable and comes together in no time. So go ahead, bookmark this recipe — you’ll definitely want to make it again.
