Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I like using pasta shells because their shape holds the creamy sauce nicely. However, you can use any small pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just cook according to the package instructions!

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with canola oil or avocado oil, but the taste won’t be quite the same.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a great aroma and flavor. If you have garlic powder, use about 1/4 teaspoon instead, but fresh is always best in this dish!

Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are sweet and burst with flavor, but you can use canned diced tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to drain them a bit.

Heavy Cream: This gives a rich texture. For a lighter option, you could try half-and-half or even coconut milk, but this will change the flavor a bit.

Basil: Fresh basil is a must here for that vibrant flavor! If fresh isn’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but the taste will be different.

How do I make sure my sauce has the perfect texture?

Getting the sauce just right is super important for this dish. Here’s how to do it:

• Start by adding the heavy cream slowly to the skillet after the garlic and tomatoes are cooked. Stir gently to avoid splattering.
• Once the cream is added, let it warm up but don’t boil it. A gentle heat helps to thicken the sauce without curdling.
• Add cheese gradually. This helps it melt smoothly into the cream, creating a velvety sauce.
• If your sauce looks too thick, don’t panic! Just add a little of the reserved pasta water, mixing until you find that perfect balance.

These steps ensure you’ll have a lovely creamy sauce that clings to each piece of pasta beautifully!

Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 8 ounces pasta shells (or your favorite small pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped (or 1 large tomato, diced)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe is quick and easy! Expect about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, so you’ll be enjoying your creamy basil tomato pasta in just about 25 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta while saving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water for later use.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not brown, so keep an eye on it!

3. Add the Tomatoes:

Now, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for around 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften. The colors will brighten, and you’ll start to smell those delicious tomato flavors!

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Reduce the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Keep stirring so that the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Trust me, this looks and smells amazing!

5. Combine with Pasta:

Toss the cooked pasta shells into the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. Adjust until you reach the consistency you like!

6. Add Fresh Basil:

Now it’s time to stir in the fresh basil leaves! Nice and aromatic, they add that burst of flavor we love. Reserve a few leaves for garnishing later.

7. Season and Serve:

Finally, add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes too! Give it a good stir, and you’re ready to eat.

8. Enjoy Your Dish:

Remove the skillet from heat and serve your creamy basil tomato pasta immediately. Don’t forget to top with extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for that perfect finishing touch!

This delightful creamy basil tomato pasta is quick to make and will leave you feeling satisfied with every bite. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as they can vary from regular pasta.

How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. Just note that the flavor may change slightly, and you might need to add a bit of flour to thicken the sauce.

Can I Add Other Vegetables or Protein?

Definitely! Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would pair nicely with this pasta dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!