Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, this one is a must-try. The burst of sweet cherry tomatoes, complemented by the savory garlic and the richness of the cream, creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The dish is elevated by a subtle kick of chili flakes and smoked paprika, giving it just the right amount of heat and depth. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 tablespoon flour
• ½ cup chopped parsley
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Cook the cherry tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
3. Add the wine and seasoning: Pour in the dry white wine, then stir in the white sugar, chili flakes, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the wine reduce slightly and the flavors combine.
4. Make the creamy sauce: Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir well to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet. Stir to incorporate, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of pasta cooking water or more cream.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the creamy tomato sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it even heartier, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted zucchini.
• Vegan: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and opt for vegan cheese in place of Parmesan.
• Gluten-free: Swap the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Add protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe container.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. Just chop them up into smaller pieces, and sauté them as you would the cherry tomatoes.

3. Can I make this recipe without wine?

Yes, you can omit the white wine. Use vegetable broth or a little bit of lemon juice for acidity in place of the wine.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?

You can add more chili flakes, or include some chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

5. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve and toss it with the pre-made sauce.

6. Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze this pasta as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a couple of days.

7. Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, light cream, or even plant-based cream alternatives (like coconut cream) if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want the sauce to be thicker, increase the amount of flour when whisking it with the cream. You can also cook it for a few extra minutes to help it thicken.

9. Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic to enhance the flavor even further.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, use a non-dairy cream substitute such as coconut cream and skip the Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy tomato garlic pasta is the ultimate comfort food, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. The combination of creamy sauce, garlic, and sweet cherry tomatoes gives this dish an irresistible balance, while the subtle heat from chili flakes adds an extra layer of excitement. Easy to make and customizable to your preferences, this pasta recipe is sure to be a new favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests, this dish will impress and delight.

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