Catch the aroma of fresh basil dancing in the kitchen as you whip up a bowl of creamy tomato basil pasta. This dish is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s like a warm hug on a plate, with its vibrant red sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta like a cozy blanket.
Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and all you want is something comforting yet fancy enough to impress your dinner guests. That’s where this creamy tomato basil pasta swoops in like a culinary superhero to save the day. It’s perfect for date nights or casual family dinners when everyone deserves a little extra love from the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy tomato basil pasta is incredibly easy to prepare and will have you looking like a gourmet chef in no time
- Its rich flavors come together beautifully, making every bite feel like a celebration
- The vibrant colors create an inviting dish that looks as good as it tastes
- Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is versatile enough to please even picky eaters
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their eyes lit up like fireworks when they took their first bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti or penne work wonderfully for capturing the creamy sauce.
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality San Marzano tomatoes; they’re sweeter and richer in flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves; they add freshness that elevates the entire dish.
- Heavy Cream: This ingredient creates that luscious creaminess we all crave in comfort food.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here; it adds depth and aromatic goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enriches the sauce with savory notes and enhances its luxurious texture.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it brings out all the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together harmoniously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 1-2 minutes will do the trick!
Add Tomatoes: Pour in your canned tomatoes (crushed or whole), breaking them up slightly with a spoon. Let them simmer lovingly while you prepare other ingredients.
Create the Cream Sauce: Stir in heavy cream gradually while mixing well. Allow it to simmer gently until thickened slightly—this should take about 5 minutes.
Add Basil and Season: Tear fresh basil leaves into the sauce and season with salt and pepper. Taste test—add more seasoning if necessary!
Toss Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta (reserving some cooking water) and add it directly into the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated; add reserved water if needed for desired consistency.
And there you have it—the ultimate creamy tomato basil pasta that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top, along with some crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce—it’s practically mandatory! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful combination of flavors that transforms a simple meal into something special
- The vibrant colors and aromas will make your kitchen feel like an Italian bistro, while the creamy texture will have everyone coming back for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente before preparing the sauce. Sauté garlic and tomatoes, then stir in cream and basil for a rich finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can also swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh basil instead of dried
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be firm
- Always taste your sauce before serving to ensure seasoning balance
Cooking this creamy tomato basil pasta reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone devoured each bite with delight.
FAQ
Can I make creamy tomato basil pasta vegan?
Yes, replace cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast for added flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine or penne are excellent choices that hold onto the sauce beautifully.
How can I add protein to this recipe?
Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a hearty meal option.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful blend of rich tomatoes, fresh basil, and velvety cream, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti or penne pasta
- Canned San Marzano tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Heavy cream
- Garlic
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Add canned tomatoes, breaking them up slightly, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Gradually stir in heavy cream and allow to simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Tear in fresh basil leaves, season with salt and pepper, then mix well.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adjusting the consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Customize by adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.