Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta in Under 30 Minutes 🍝🧄🍅✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines comfort-food flavors with a vegetarian twist? This creamy garlic tomato pasta recipe is your answer. In less than half an hour, you can enjoy a rich, Italian-style pasta that’s bursting with garlic and tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this 30-minute dish offers the authentic taste of Italian cooking without the fuss.
Upgrade your pasta game with this vegetarian delight that is both cheesy and flavorful. You’ll love how the creamy sauce perfectly coats the al dente noodles, making it an all-time favorite for your comfort-food collection. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this easy and quick recipe will become a go-to staple in your kitchen.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) of pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or vegan alternative
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta
Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.
Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning.
Cook the Tomatoes
Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their flavors. Stir occasionally.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. For a richer flavor, stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed, creating a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Garnish and Serve
Finish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your garlic tomato pasta crafted in under 30 minutes!
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of pasta water or cream to restore the creamy texture. Avoid reheating for too long to prevent the sauce from breaking.
5. Serving Suggestions and Variations
This vegetarian Italian garlic tomato pasta is perfect on its own or served with a side salad. For extra protein, consider adding sautéed chicken or beef.
Sprinkle some Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an extra flavor boost.
6. FAQ about Garlic Tomato Pasta
- Can I make this 30-minute pasta vegan? Yes! Use vegan heavy cream or coconut milk to replace traditional cream.
- Can I substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta? Absolutely, you can use any type of pasta preferred, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- How long does it take to prepare this dish? The total cooking time is under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- What are some spice options? Red pepper flakes add heat, but you can skip them or add fresh chili for a different flavor profile.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: This nonstick cookware set ensures easy cooking and cleaning, making your pasta prep smooth and hassle-free.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Prepare refreshing drinks to complement your pasta, turning your meal into an experience.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Chop herbs or ingredients quickly, saving time and effort in meal prep.
8. Related recipes to try next
9. Conclusion
This garlic tomato pasta recipe is the ultimate easy, vegetarian, and Italian comfort-food dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a quick way to satisfy your craving for something rich and flavorful. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress everyone at your dinner table with this creamy pasta. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite herbs or add a protein for variety. Happy cooking!
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The Best Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta – Done in Under 30 Minutes
Discover the ultimate quick and easy recipe for Creamy Garlic Tomato Pasta that cooks in under 30 minutes. This rich, vegetarian dish features al dente pasta coated in a flavorful and creamy garlic tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and comfort food cravings. Made with fresh ingredients and simple steps, it’s a delicious vegetarian meal that satisfies every time.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) of pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or vegan alternative
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing tomatoes to soften.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring well. Add red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor, if desired.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for a creamy consistency.
- Garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For vegan version, use plant-based cream alternatives such as coconut or cashew cream.
- Add protein such as sautéed chicken or shrimp for variation.
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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