Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is not only easy to make but also packed with veggies, making it a nutrient-dense meal the whole family will love.

I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of creamy sauce, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic garlic creates a dish that's both comforting and flavorful.

Essential Ingredients

• Garlic Cloves: Finely chopped, they provide a robust, aromatic base for the sauce.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sliced in half, they add a sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing the sauce's richness.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a fruity, rich flavor to the dish.
• Dry White Wine: Deglazes the pan, adding depth and complexity to the sauce.
• White Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
• Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious, creamy texture to the sauce.
• Flour: Mixed with water to form a slurry, it thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Chopped Parsley: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Rigatoni Pasta: The pasta's ridges hold the sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Spices: Chili flakes, smoked paprika powder, and garlic powder add layers of flavor and a hint of heat.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Parmesan (Optional): Grated on top, it adds a salty, nutty finish to the dish.

Cooking Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

Finely chop the garlic and slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Preparing the ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process.

Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and a pinch of salt, cooking until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of the sauce's flavor.

Cook the Tomatoes

Add the cherry tomatoes and another pinch of salt. Sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to release their juices. This process develops the tomatoes' natural sweetness.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white wine, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir in the chili flakes and tomato paste, mixing well to combine. Deglazing the pan lifts the browned bits from the bottom, adding depth to the sauce.

Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a smooth slurry. Slowly stir this into the sauce, allowing it to thicken over 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The slurry ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

Season & Combine

Stir in the chopped parsley, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked rigatoni, making sure the pasta is al dente to avoid overcooking in the sauce. Combining the pasta and sauce allows the flavors to meld together.

Finish Cooking

Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Cover with a lid and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This resting period enhances the dish's overall taste.

Serve

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, extra parsley, and a crack of black pepper. Enjoy! The final touches add a burst of flavor and a pleasing presentation.

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I particularly love adding a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat that balances the creaminess of the sauce. My family enjoys this pasta with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy tomato garlic pasta with garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp. A glass of white wine complements the dish's flavors beautifully.

Variations

Customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Use shallots or onions instead of garlic, or swap cherry tomatoes for regular tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, or canned diced tomatoes. For a different twist, try using penne or fusilli pasta. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover creamy tomato garlic rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that's quick to prepare and sure to please the whole family. With its rich, creamy sauce and nutrient-packed ingredients, it's a meal that's both satisfying and wholesome. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in every bite!

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Rigatoni pasta is recommended, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer.

→ Can I use a different type of wine?

Dry white wine is recommended, but you can use any type of white wine you prefer.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

→ How long does this recipe take to prepare?

It takes about 5 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, totaling 35 minutes.