This creamy basil tomato pasta is a perfect dish for busy evenings. It combines fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil with a rich, creamy sauce that everyone will love!
Honestly, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it takes just 30 minutes to whip up, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy dinner with your family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fusilli for this dish. They hold the creamy sauce well. If you need a gluten-free option, try chickpea or rice pasta instead, which can be just as delicious.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and depth. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work well. Just drain them before adding to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. For a veggie option, use nutritional yeast to add that cheesy taste without the dairy.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for its vibrant flavor. If you can’t find fresh, use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Just remember, it’s not the same, but it will still bring some flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta just right is key to this dish! Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the pasta, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente — firm but cooked through.
- Before draining, remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can help adjust your sauce’s consistency later.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta but don’t rinse it! Rinsing washes away the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 medium fresh tomatoes, diced)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Additional Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil tomato pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and then about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick yet delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which is usually around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of that tasty pasta water before you drain the pasta, then set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant but not browned. We don’t want the garlic to burn, as that can make it taste bitter.
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften and their juices are released. This is where the magic begins!
4. Season the Sauce:
Sprinkle in some salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re up for a little heat. Stir everything together to blend those flavors.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens just a bit. This will make it creamy and delicious!
6. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese while the sauce is still warm, allowing it to melt into the creamy mixture. This will give you that rich texture we all love!
7. Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to ensure every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. If it feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired creaminess.
8. Mix in the Fresh Basil:
Finally, fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves to brighten up the flavors. Once everything is combined well, remove the skillet from the heat.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil tomato pasta immediately. Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. Dive in and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish!
Happy dining!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fusilli work great for this recipe, feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy, such as spaghetti, rotini, or even gluten-free options like chickpea or rice pasta.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that using a thinner liquid might slightly affect the creaminess of the sauce.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! If you’re looking to make it vegan, simply substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
