This creamy basil tomato pasta is super easy to whip up! With fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and a touch of cream, it makes every bite delightful and comforting.
No need to spend hours in the kitchen; you can have this meal ready in under 30 minutes. I often pair it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—it just makes everything better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is a great choice for this recipe as its shape holds the sauce well. However, if you prefer a different type, any pasta like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti works just fine. Just remember to cook it al dente!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give an incredible burst of flavor, but if you’re short on time, a can of diced tomatoes is a great alternative. It saves peeling and chopping, while still delivering tasty results.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even use a non-dairy option like coconut cream. This will change the flavor slightly but still creates a creamy texture.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice depth, but other cheeses like pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option can be used. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste!
Basil: Fresh basil is key here, but if you can’t get it, dried basil works in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Perfectly?
Making the sauce creamy and flavorful requires a few steps to pay attention to. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by cooking the garlic and onion until soft and fragrant. This builds a flavorful base.
- Add the tomatoes and allow them to break down. This is important for creating a sauce that clings to the pasta.
- When adding the heavy cream and cheese, stir constantly on low heat for a rich and creamy consistency. Don’t let it boil!
- Adjust the thickness by adding reserved pasta water. Just a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
With these tips, you’ll achieve a delicious, creamy sauce every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) orecchiette pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra whole leaves for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil tomato pasta can be ready in about 25-30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta, and then around 15-20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your orecchiette pasta (or pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to save about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water is great for adjusting the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This is where the flavorful base of our dish begins!
3. Create the Tomato Sauce:
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) and a pinch of salt. Allow this to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and create a chunky sauce. The juices from the tomatoes will mingle with the aromatics beautifully!
4. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened. Avoid boiling at this point to keep the cream from separating.
5. Mix in the Basil:
Now, toss in your roughly chopped fresh basil leaves, stirring them through the sauce. This will give it a fantastic fresh flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
6. Combine the Pasta with the Sauce:
Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the delicious sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. If it seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your creamy basil tomato pasta and garnish with extra whole basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Tomatoes?
No problem! You can use a 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes instead. Just drain any excess liquid if needed, and follow the same steps to cook the sauce.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, you can try coconut cream, although it will change the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stove with a splash of water or additional cream to restore the creaminess.
