This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s made with fresh tomatoes, creamy sauce, and fragrant basil that makes each bite feel special and comforting.
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up. Just cook the pasta, stir in the sauce, and enjoy! Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests without fuss. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used pasta shells, but you can swap them for any pasta you prefer, like penne or fusilli. Just make sure it holds the sauce for a delicious bite!
Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes make this dish shine. If they’re not in season, canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch. Look for high-quality or fire-roasted varieties for extra flavor.
Heavy Cream: You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream for a lighter version. Just note that using lighter options may affect the creaminess of the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan is great, feel free to use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if that’s what you have on hand. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option for similar flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is best for this recipe, but if you only have dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon instead of a whole cup. Just remember dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Sauce is Creamy?
One of the secrets to achieving that silky creaminess is to properly melt the cheese in the warm cream. Here’s how to do it:
- After adding cream, keep the heat low. If it’s too high, the sauce might curdle.
- Stir continuously to help the cheese incorporate into the cream smoothly. This step is crucial!
- Once you have a smooth mixture, mix in the pasta right away while the sauce is warm. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly!
Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz pasta shells (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add a pinch of salt and throw in the pasta shells. Cook according to the package directions until they’re al dente (a little firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside—don’t forget to save a small cup of pasta water if you want to adjust the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. After a minute, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Next, add the diced fresh tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften up and release their juices. You’ll smell the lovely aroma—yum!
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through for a minute. Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce looks creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a little pasta water to loosen it up!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta right into the sauce, tossing it gently to coat every shell evenly with the creamy goodness. Mix it well so that each bite has that delicious sauce.
6. Finish with Basil and Seasoning:
Fold in the fresh chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one last gentle mix.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your creamy basil tomato pasta right away! Sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for a little more flavor. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses pasta shells, you can substitute it with any pasta type, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How Do I 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 water or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic, or toss in some cooked protein like grilled chicken or shrimp! You can also boost the flavor with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of Italian seasoning.
