Introduction
Welcome to a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening! Our Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is here to delight your taste buds with its rich, velvety sauce and the enticing aroma of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients transforming into something truly magical. Get ready to enjoy every creamy, tomato-infused bite!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain and set aside while you whip up the sauce.
- In a large skillet, gently heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up and become infused with flavor.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant and golden, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Let the sauce simmer on low for about 5 minutes while you savor the mingling of flavors, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
- Lower the heat and carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring until it combines beautifully with the tomato base for a rich and creamy texture.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to ensure every strand is coated in that luscious, flavorful mixture.
- Remove the skillet from heat, then garnish your pasta with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Dig in and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some onions along with the garlic. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, either during the sauce-making step or right before serving!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the pasta until al dente is essential, as this helps it maintain its texture and not become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Make sure to stir the sauce regularly; this helps blend the flavors and prevents anything from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
FAQ
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Absolutely! Half-and-half will give you a slightly lighter sauce, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it—an Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta that brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness right to your table. Whether it’s a busy weekday dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the delightful aromas fill your home. Enjoy every bite!