This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is a warm bowl of yum! With fresh tomatoes, creamy sauce, and fragrant basil, it’s like a little hug in each bite.
You’ll love how quick it is to make—perfect for a busy day! I often add extra basil on top because, let’s be honest, who can have too much basil? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using pasta shells because they hold sauce beautifully. You can try other small pasta types like fusilli or rotini if you prefer!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. If you have canola or vegetable oil, those will work too, but they won’t add as much taste.
Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, though I recommend using it sparingly since it’s more concentrated.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring freshness, but canned tomatoes are a great time-saver. If you use canned, go for whole tomatoes and crush them slightly in the pan.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich. You could even try coconut milk for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The key to a smooth, creamy sauce is careful cooking. Start with sautéing your garlic gently in olive oil. Avoid high heat; otherwise, the garlic can burn and turn bitter. When you add the cream, let it simmer a bit to thicken up, which helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Cook your sauce on medium heat, and be patient—allow it some time to gently bubble and thicken.
- Make sure to stir frequently, which helps keep the texture creamy and prevents anything from sticking or burning.
- Right at the end, add the basil. This preserves its fresh flavor and bright color!
Enjoy your pasta night with this delicious and easy dish! 🍝
Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta shells (or your favorite small pasta)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making it ready to serve in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
3. Add Tomatoes:
Now, add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This helps release all those yummy flavors!
4. Make It Creamy:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Let this mix simmer gently for another 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken up and become luxurious.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy tomato sauce. You want each piece of pasta to be covered!
6. Add Parmesan:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts into the sauce, making it even creamier.
7. Finish with Basil:
Fold in the fresh basil leaves and let them wilt slightly in the warm sauce. This will make your dish smell amazing!
8. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you enjoy a little kick, don’t forget to sprinkle some red pepper flakes in there too!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious pasta immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if you’d like. Bon appétit!
Enjoy your rich, creamy, and fresh Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great, you can use any small pasta shape like fusilli, rotini, or penne. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a cashew cream blend!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve and combine them together to maintain the best texture.
