This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is like a warm hug in a bowl! It features pasta tossed in a rich tomato and basil sauce, creamy and oh-so-delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using pasta shells for their ability to hold sauce well. However, you can easily swap them for penne or farfalle if that’s what you have. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor. If it’s not available, you can use garlic powder (about 1/8 teaspoon per clove). I love using fresh because it gives a vibrant taste.
Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add brightness to the dish, but canned tomatoes are a great alternative—just make sure to drain them well. I love vine-ripened tomatoes when they’re in season!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. If dairy-free, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream.
Basil: Fresh basil offers the best flavor, but in a pinch, dried basil will work too—just reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent. I find fresh basil makes the dish especially aromatic!
How Do I Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked and Coated?
Cooking pasta perfectly is all about timing and technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Salt your water well before boiling—it should taste like the sea! This helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook pasta until it is al dente. It should still have a little bite to it to avoid becoming mushy once mixed with the sauce.
- Always reserve some pasta cooking water! This starchy water is your secret weapon to adjust the thickness of the sauce later. If the sauce is too thick, a splash can help loosen it.
- When you add pasta to the sauce, make sure to stir well so it gets fully coated. This ensures every bite is filled with flavor!
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your pasta is the star of the dish, perfectly creamy and delicious every time!
Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces pasta shells (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking your pasta, and then about 15 minutes putting together the creamy sauce and mixing it all. A quick, delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to taste a piece to check it! Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water; this will help adjust the sauce later if needed. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute—just until it’s fragrant but not browned (burnt garlic is bitter!). Next, toss in your diced tomatoes and let them cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften up nicely.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir to combine with the tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it’s all melted and the sauce is creamy. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season and Combine:
Season your sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat—taste and adjust as needed. Now add the cooked pasta into the skillet along with your reserved pasta water. Stir everything together well so that the pasta is fully coated in that luscious creamy tomato sauce!
5. Finish with Basil:
Finally, gently stir in the fresh basil. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let those beautiful flavors meld together and the sauce thicken up just a bit. When it’s time to serve, dish it out hot and sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top if you desire.
Enjoy this comforting and creamy basil tomato pasta dish made easily in one pan! It’s a great meal for busy weeknights or when you just need something delicious without a lot of fuss.
FAQ for Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells are great for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute them with other shapes such as penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose!
Is There a Dairy-Free Substitute for Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream as substitutes. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, but they will still create a creamy texture!
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 on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or additional cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens up.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time! Simply prepare the creamy sauce and store it separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and basil right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
