This creamy basil tomato pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s super simple yet bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how easy it is! You only need to cook the pasta, mix in the creamy sauce, and toss in some fresh basil. Dinner is ready in a flash, leaving plenty of time for dessert! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, but you can use any pasta you like! Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work great too. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are also excellent alternatives.
Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are ideal for their meaty texture. If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them before adding to the sauce for a quick substitute that still delivers great flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but be mindful that the flavor and consistency will change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds rich flavor. If you want to keep it dairy-free, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Or try a vegan Parmesan substitute!
How Do I Cook the Pasta Just Right?
Cooking pasta al dente ensures it has the perfect bite. Here are some tips:
- Use a large pot of salted boiling water; it makes a difference in flavor.
- Check the package for cooking times, but taste a minute or two before the time is up to catch it perfectly. It should be tender yet firm!
- Remember to save a bit of the pasta water! It can help loosen your sauce later and add a touch of starch to it.
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) orecchiette pasta or your preferred pasta shape
For the Sauce:
- 3 ripe Roma tomatoes, chopped (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil tomato pasta takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes, making it a great option for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, just until you can smell it—be careful not to let it brown! Then, toss in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a delicious, chunky sauce.
3. Make It Creamy:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let this simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes until it thickens a bit. The creaminess will balance beautifully with the tangy tomatoes!
4. Combine and Season:
Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta to your skillet! Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little of that reserved pasta water to get the right consistency. Toss in the chopped basil and season everything with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir well to combine all those tasty flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy basil tomato pasta is ready to serve! Dish it out into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if you like, and enjoy your quick and easy dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh Basil?
Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh basil isn’t available. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for this recipe. Add it when you introduce the cream to help release its flavor!
What Type of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?
While orecchiette is a great choice because of its shape, you can use any pasta shape you prefer! Spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options like brown rice pasta will work well with the creamy sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just ensure your pasta is vegan-friendly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to the pasta to help restore its creamy texture.
