The Best Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta – Done in Under 30 Minutes

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This quick and easy creamy garlic tomato pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With a rich, velvety sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of cream, this dish is both satisfying and delightful. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic choice for busy evenings and pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. Elevate your pasta nights with this deliciously simple recipe!

Violet Hart

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2025-11-25T15:42:35.372Z

This creamy garlic tomato pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience. Every bite is infused with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the savory punch of garlic. Ready in a flash, it's perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Finding meals that are both quick to prepare and full of flavor can be a challenge. This creamy garlic tomato pasta recipe ticks all the boxes. It's not only ready in under 30 minutes but also uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. As you toss the pasta in the velvety sauce, you'll appreciate how the flavors meld together to create a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet easy.

Weeknight dinners don’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With this recipe, you can have a delicious meal on the table in less time than it takes to order takeout. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce and fresh tomatoes will have everyone asking for seconds!

Customizing Your Dish

One of the great things about creamy garlic tomato pasta is its versatility. While this recipe provides a fantastic base, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. For a heartier option, you can include grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a complete meal that satisfies all appetites.

Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta as well. Whether you choose spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options, this sauce will cling beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Adjust the creaminess by tweaking the amount of heavy cream used—less for a lighter dish or more for a richer experience.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this creamy garlic tomato pasta with a refreshing side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pasta perfectly. You might also explore adding a side of crusty garlic bread, which is ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce left on your plate.

For beverages, a crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with citrus will balance the flavors wonderfully. If you're making this dish for a special occasion, serving it with a complementary wine can enhance the overall experience. Invite your loved ones to enjoy this delightful meal together, creating cherished memories around the dinner table.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your creamy garlic tomato pasta:

Ingredients

  • 400g pasta of your choice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 500g fresh tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare your creamy garlic tomato pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften, then stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the creamy tomato sauce. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic tomato pasta!

Nutritional Benefits

This creamy garlic tomato pasta isn't just a treat for the taste buds; it also offers a great mix of nutrients. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, which can contribute to overall health. Including fresh herbs like basil adds extra vitamins and enhances both taste and aroma, making your dish even more appealing.

Though the dish involves some cream, it's balanced with the freshness of tomatoes and herbs, creating a meal that's satisfying without being overly heavy. Enjoying this dish occasionally as part of a balanced diet can provide both comfort and nutritional value.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you'll be pleased to know that this creamy garlic tomato pasta stores well in the refrigerator. Place any uneaten portions in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or more cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Freezing this dish is possible, but for the best results, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately. The creamy sauce may change texture when frozen, so it's best to add it fresh when reheating. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of your favorite weeknight meal whenever you crave it.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to drain some of the liquid to maintain sauce consistency.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure your pasta is egg-free if you're strictly vegetarian.

The Best Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta – Done in Under 30 Minutes

This quick and easy creamy garlic tomato pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With a rich, velvety sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of cream, this dish is both satisfying and delightful. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic choice for busy evenings and pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. Elevate your pasta nights with this deliciously simple recipe!

Prep Time10.0
Cooking Duration20.0
Overall Time30.0

Created by: Violet Hart

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4.0

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 400g pasta of your choice
  2. 2 tbsp olive oil
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 500g fresh tomatoes, diced
  5. 1/2 cup heavy cream
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Fresh basil for garnish
  8. Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 03

Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften, then stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the creamy tomato sauce. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Step 05

Garnish with fresh basil and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g