This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is a warm and comforting dish that everyone will love. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, creamy sauce, and fragrant basil for a delicious combo!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using pasta shells for this recipe because they hold the creamy sauce perfectly. However, you can also use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Olive Oil: This gives the dish a nice flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil or vegetable oil works just fine. You could even use butter for a richer taste!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give the best taste, but you can use canned if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well. If you want a little sweetness, try using cherry tomatoes—they’re usually sweeter.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: I prefer freshly grated Parmesan because it melts better than pre-grated. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative for that cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get the Sauce Just Right?
The key to a creamy sauce is to blend the flavors without overcooking the ingredients. It’s important to stir in the cream and allow it to simmer gently. Here’s the process:
- After garlic is fragrant, add the tomatoes and let them soften before adding the cream.
- Keep the heat low while adding heavy cream, preventing it from boiling and curdling.
- Gradually add Parmesan cheese. This ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Taking your time here leads to a velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta shells or your choice of pasta
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels gourmet but is super easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This will release a lovely garlic flavor into the oil.
3. Adding the Tomatoes:
Next, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. The tomatoes will create a wonderful base for your creamy sauce.
4. Making It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Make sure not to let it boil, or it may curdle.
5. Stirring in Cheese:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the creamy sauce to coat the pasta evenly. This is where all that wonderful flavor comes together!
7. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the fresh basil leaves, reserving a few for garnishing later. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a gentle mix to combine everything nicely.
8. Serving:
Serve the pasta immediately! Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if you like. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dinner!
This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, simple, and packed with deliciousness!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta you like—such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply ensure your Parmesan cheese is rennet-free. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What Should I Serve With This Pasta?
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a heartier meal!
