Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta with Rich Parmesan Sauce
A delicious fusion of Italian-American flavors featuring a creamy garlic parmesan and tomato sauce.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Saucepan for preparing sauce
- 1 Wooden spoon for stirring
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese, and cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Add the pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Stir in red pepper flakes and fresh basil, if using. Serve immediately with additional parmesan cheese.
Serving
- Garnish the pasta with fresh basil and extra parmesan. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor. Adjust the sauce's thickness with pasta water as needed.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the cream.
How to Serve: Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Storage & Freshness: Best consumed within 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the cream.
How to Serve: Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Storage & Freshness: Best consumed within 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.