This creamy basil tomato pasta is a cozy meal that hits the spot! Made with fresh tomatoes, rich cream, and fragrant basil, it’s pure comfort on a plate.
One of my favorite things is how quick it is to whip up. I can enjoy a delicious dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen. Perfect for busy nights! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend penne or fusilli because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, there are great alternatives like rice or quinoa pasta that work well too.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and richness. If you’re out, you can substitute it with avocado oil or butter, though oil gives a lighter finish.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness to the dish. If you can’t find them, use diced canned tomatoes or fresh Roma tomatoes. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best, but you can substitute with pecorino cheese or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How to Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic requires careful attention to prevent burning, which makes it bitter. Here are some tips:
- Always start with medium heat. Garlic cooks quickly, so don’t crank up the heat.
- Add the minced garlic once the oil is warm. This allows it to infuse the oil without cooking for too long.
- Keep stirring! This will help distribute the heat evenly and prevent garlic from sticking or browning too quickly.
- If it starts to brown faster than expected, lower the heat immediately.
With these tips, you’ll get perfectly fragrant garlic every time!
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer tomato flavor)
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water
Time Needed:
This creamy basil tomato pasta takes about 25 minutes total. It will take about 10 minutes to prep, and another 15 minutes to cook. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest. Keep that water handy; it’s key to making the sauce creamy!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown, as that can make it bitter.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes (or chopped ripe tomatoes) to the skillet. If you want a little kick, toss in the red pepper flakes. Season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.
4. Add Tomato Paste (Optional):
If you’re adding tomato paste for a richer flavor, stir it in now and let it cook for another minute. This step is optional but adds a nice depth to the dish.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and gently pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything well and let it warm through, but don’t let it boil. You want a lovely, creamy sauce!
6. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuously stirring to ensure it melts completely into the sauce and creates a creamy texture.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Next, add the drained pasta and reserved cooking water to the skillet. Toss everything together so that every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cream and tomato sauce.
8. Stir in Fresh Basil:
Finally, mix in the chopped fresh basil. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy basil tomato pasta is ready! Serve it warm, garnished with extra fresh basil and Parmesan if you’d like. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Bon appétit! 🍝
FAQ about Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. Greek yogurt can also work for a tangy twist, but you’ll want to add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or pasta water to bring the sauce back to life!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
While pasta dishes generally freeze well, the creamy sauce may change texture once thawed. If you want to freeze it, consider keeping the sauce separate from the pasta and freeze them in airtight containers. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove.
