This creamy basil tomato pasta is a winner for dinner! It has a rich sauce made from fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, bringing a burst of flavor to your plate.
Cooking it is a breeze—just mix the pasta with the sauce and enjoy. Trust me, every bite will make you smile. Perfect for busy days or cozy nights! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Shell or rotini works well for this recipe, as they hold the sauce nicely. If you’re out of these types, any pasta like penne or fusilli will do the trick.
Olive Oil: This oil adds flavor and helps to sauté the garlic. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with avocado oil, which also has a high smoke point.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. Just know it will change the flavors a bit, but it can still be delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: While freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting smoothly, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh is ideal, but if you don’t have it, dried basil can work in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less.
How Do You Ensure Your Tomatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the tomatoes properly is key to a flavorful sauce. When they’re heated, they soften and release their juices, which forms the base for your creamy sauce.
- After adding garlic and sautéing it, toss in halved cherry tomatoes — they’ll soften quickly.
- Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be slightly blistered but still holding shape for texture.
- If you like a deeper flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them.
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sauce:
- 8 oz pasta (such as shell or rotini)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
For Topping:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy basil tomato pasta will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a bit of time cooking the pasta and sautéing the ingredients, but the result is quick and rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes fragrant—just be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should soften and start releasing their delightful juices.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, which will help combine those wonderful flavors.
5. Add the Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it completely melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of heat!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat all the noodles with the creamy sauce. Make sure every piece gets a nice coating!
7. Incorporate the Basil:
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped basil leaves. This will add a fresh flavor to the dish, and the heat will cause the basil to wilt perfectly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy basil tomato pasta is ready! Serve it immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy this delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, and the yogurt mix should be added on low heat to avoid curdling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry. It helps restore the creaminess!
