This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is a delightful mix of fresh flavors. With juicy tomatoes, creamy sauce, and fragrant basil, it’s a dish that warms the heart!
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up — perfect for a cozy dinner! I find it’s a great way to impress guests or just treat yourself after a long day. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Pasta shells are great for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can use penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta for a suitable alternative.
Fresh Tomatoes: Diced fresh tomatoes add vibrant flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work just fine, and they maintain that rich taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, try half-and-half or even a dairy-free milk like coconut cream. The sauce might be a bit thinner, but it will still taste delightful!
Parmesan Cheese: If you want a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor. I often add a sprinkle of it for extra umami.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic punch. If you can’t find fresh, dried basil can work too—just use about one-third of the amount.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Is Creamy Without Curdling?
To achieve a luscious and silky sauce, follow these steps carefully. The key is to control the heat and timing:
- Keep the heat on medium to prevent the cream from boiling. A gentle simmer is best.
- Gradually add the cream after cooking the tomatoes. This helps it combine smoothly without separating.
- Stir in the cheese slowly, allowing it to melt completely before adding the pasta. This ensures a well-blended, creamy sauce!
- Always taste your sauce! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to boost flavors.
By following these tips, you’ll have a creamy texture that everyone will love!
Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz pasta shells (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy, taking about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes for making the creamy sauce and combining everything. It’s a perfect option for a fast weeknight dinner!
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 done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will create a perfect base for your creamy sauce!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant—don’t let it brown, as that can make it bitter.
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the tomatoes to soften up and release their juicy goodness into the pan.
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine it with the tomatoes. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes so that the sauce can thicken slightly. You’ll see it start to transform into a creamy delight!
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it’s melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat all the shells with the creamy tomato mixture. Make sure every piece of pasta gets that delicious sauce!
7. Season and Add Basil:
Fold in the fresh basil leaves and season your pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
8. Final Cook:
Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes on low heat. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil tomato pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top for a beautiful finish. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this comforting dish!
Bon appétit! 🍝
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work beautifully with the creamy sauce!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure the Parmesan cheese you use is rennet-free or look for a suitable vegan alternative if you need it to be completely plant-based.
Can I Prep This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time! Simply cook the sauce up to step 7 and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or a bit of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
