The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil wafts through the kitchen as you prepare to indulge in a bowl of creamy tomato basil pasta. Each twirl of the fork promises a delightful mix of velvety sauce and fresh basil that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Remember those days when dinner was a chaotic ballet of pots and pans? This recipe takes you back to simpler times when the hardest decision was whether to add more cheese or not. Cooking should be fun, and this creamy tomato basil pasta is here to remind us all that it’s not just about eating; it’s about enjoying every moment in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy tomato basil pasta is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- The rich flavor profile combines sweet tomatoes with aromatic basil for a delightful experience
- The vibrant colors will brighten any dinner table, making it visually appealing for guests
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion—weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings alike!
I once made this dish for my family on a busy weeknight, and they devoured it in seconds while asking for seconds—and thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti or penne both work beautifully in this recipe.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for quality brands; they provide the base flavor that makes this sauce sing.
- Fresh Basil: Always choose vibrant green leaves for maximum freshness and aroma.
- Heavy Cream: This adds the luxurious creaminess that transforms simple pasta into something special.
- Garlic: Freshly minced cloves elevate the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds depth; don’t skimp on it!
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best for sautéing garlic and adding richness.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your palate.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather your ingredients because it’s time to bring this creamy tomato basil pasta to life!
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—careful not to let it burn!
Add Tomatoes: Pour in canned diced tomatoes along with their juices into the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream, mixing until you achieve a luscious sauce consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Toss in Basil: Remove from heat and fold fresh basil into the sauce until wilted. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Add Pasta: Finally, combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Toss gently until every strand is coated beautifully.
Now serve yourself a generous helping of this creamy tomato basil pasta, sprinkle with extra parmesan if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every bite as flavors explode like confetti at a party!
Cooking should be an adventure filled with laughter and savory moments—this creamy tomato basil pasta delivers just that!
You Must Know
- Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is not just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl!
- The blend of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, making it feel like an Italian bistro
- This dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta first; it saves time and allows everything to come together seamlessly. While the pasta cooks, sauté garlic and tomatoes in olive oil for a rich flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out fresh basil for spinach or arugula for a different green twist. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness; they enhance the sauce beautifully
- Don’t rush the simmering time; let flavors meld for a more robust taste
- Fresh basil should be added last to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma
Sharing this dish with friends always brings back memories of laughter-filled evenings and compliments that make my heart swell with joy.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for creamy tomato basil pasta?
Fusilli or penne are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned San Marzano tomatoes provide great flavor and convenience.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this easy recipe combines fresh ingredients for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Heavy cream
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add canned diced tomatoes with their juices and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until the sauce thickens.
- Fold in fresh basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing until well coated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Substitute fresh basil with spinach or arugula for a different flavor. For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or shrimp. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of cream.