This creamy cheesy tomato garlic spaghetti is a warm hug in a bowl! With juicy tomatoes, gooey cheese, and a hint of garlic, it’s both rich and comforting.
If you’re like me, you might find yourself eating more than one serving—it’s just too good! Pair it with a sprinkle of basil on top for a little extra yummy flavor!
I love how easy it is to whip up after a long day; just boil the pasta, toss everything together, and enjoy! It’s a simple weeknight treat that always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works best for this dish, but you can swap it with other types like fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor, but you can use butter or a neutral oil like canola instead. Each gives a slightly different taste, so pick based on your preference.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the star! But, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes offer convenience. If you use fresh tomatoes, roughly chop them and use about 3-4 medium-sized. Just cook them a little longer to break down.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. For a lighter substitute, consider half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic. You could use cheddar for a sharper flavor or even a non-dairy cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Creamy and Not Too Thick?
Getting that dreamy creamy sauce just right can be tricky, but here’s the plan:
- Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, which gives it great texture and also helps with sauce absorption.
- When making the sauce, really allow the tomatoes to simmer. This intensifies the flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
- After adding cheese, if your sauce feels too thick, gradually stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water. This water is starchy and helps to loosen up the sauce!
Mix until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember, it’s easier to make it thinner, so add water a little at a time!
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Tomato Garlic Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes total—10 minutes to boil the spaghetti and 20 minutes to make the sauce and mix everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside, but don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water! It helps with the sauce later.
2. Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, drizzle the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as that can create a bitter flavor.
3. Create the Tomato Base:
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the flavors blend together while the sauce slightly reduces.
4. Add Cream:
Now, reduce the heat and gently pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine everything and allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. You want it warm and ready for the cheese!
5. Combine the Cheeses:
Next, toss in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and luscious. Yum!
6. Mix in the Spaghetti:
Carefully add the cooked spaghetti to your creamy cheese tomato sauce. Toss everything together, and if the sauce seems too thick, mix in a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Make sure every strand of pasta is well-coated!
7. Final Touches:
Give everything a final taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This is your chance to customize it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious creamy cheesy tomato garlic spaghetti hot, with fresh basil leaves on top for garnish if you desire. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family—you’ll surely impress them!
This creamy, cheesy, garlicky tomato spaghetti is a comforting crowd-pleaser—perfect for a quick and indulgent meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well for a healthier option, and gluten-free pasta is great if you’re avoiding gluten. Just be sure to follow package instructions for cooking times, as they can vary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet on low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to restore creaminess if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also increase the quantity of vegetables to maintain fullness without adding too many calories.
