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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe: Your New Go-To Comfort Food Masterpiece

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta Recipe (30-Minute Meal!)

If you’re a fan of cozy, comforting pasta dishes, this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is sure to become a favorite. Loaded with sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s the perfect balance of richness and freshness. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 garlic cloves, minced

  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 cup dry white wine

  • 1 teaspoon white sugar

  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 2 cups heavy cream (or substitute with plant-based milk, 1:1)

  • 1 tablespoon flour

  • ½ cup chopped parsley

  • 8 oz rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Freshly grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients:
    Mince the garlic and halve the cherry tomatoes.

  2. Sauté the Garlic:
    In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes until golden and fragrant.

  3. Cook the Tomatoes:
    Add the cherry tomatoes and another ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

  4. Deglaze the Pan:
    Pour in white wine and simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in chili flakes, tomato paste, and sugar, mixing well.

  5. Add the Cream:
    Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. In a small bowl, whisk flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce to thicken. Cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  6. Season & Combine:
    Stir in chopped parsley, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add cooked rigatoni and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

  7. Finish Cooking:
    Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes more, then remove from heat. Cover and let rest for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.

  8. Serve:
    Garnish with grated Parmesan, extra parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness and a burst of flavor.

  • Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.

  • Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

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