A fast, flavorful 25-minute pasta dish featuring garlic, tomatoes, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals.
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes.
Add tomatoes and simmer for 5–7 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in cream and simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Add Parmesan and cooked pasta, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish and serve hot.