Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. Keep the sauce in the fridge and gently reheat with a splash of liquid.

Is heavy cream necessary?

No. Heavy cream gives richness, but you can use half-and-half or a milk-butter mix for a lighter version. The texture will be slightly different but still comforting.

Yes. Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans. Cook the protein separately and return it to the skillet so the pasta absorbs the sauce flavor.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking after mixing with the sauce?

Toss quickly with tongs and serve right away. If you must wait, add a teaspoon of olive oil and a splash of pasta water to keep the strands separate.

What if I do not have fresh basil?

You can use a sprinkle of dried basil or oregano, but add it earlier in the cooking. Fresh basil at the end gives the brightest aroma.

Easy Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta in 35 min

Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced); 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A quick and comforting creamy tomato garlic pasta that brings the family together.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Add a splash of lemon juice if tomatoes are mealy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian