This creamy basil tomato pasta is a warm and inviting dish that combines fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner!
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up this delightful meal. Just cook the pasta, mix in the sauce, and enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness. Who knew dinner could be this easy and tasty? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is a fun choice because its shape holds the sauce well. If you don’t have it, any pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti works nicely. Just pick your favorite!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes as they add a burst of freshness. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can substitute seamlessly. Just drain them a bit to avoid excess liquid.
Heavy Cream: This is key for the creaminess! If you’d prefer a lighter option, try half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but the flavor will change a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for the best flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The creamy sauce is the secret star of this dish, and getting it just right is simple! Start by sautéing the garlic gently; you don’t want it to burn, as it can turn bitter.
- Once you add the heavy cream and cheese, keep the heat low. This helps the cheese melt without clumping.
- Mix well to combine, and if the sauce feels too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, stir in the fresh basil gently to keep those flavors vibrant and fresh.
With these tips, your creamy basil tomato pasta will be a hit at dinner! Enjoy every bite!
Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) orecchiette pasta (or your preferred pasta)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium Roma tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
For Garnish:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- A few whole basil leaves for topping
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful pasta dish takes about 30 minutes to make from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (tender but still firm). Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften and release their delicious juices.
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken just a bit—perfect for coating the pasta!
5. Create the Creamy Mixture:
Now, reduce the heat to low, and pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until it’s creamy and combined. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil, but save a few leaves for garnishing later. This will keep the vibrant basil flavor fresh in your pasta!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the creamy basil tomato pasta into bowls, topping each with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal!
Bon appétit! Your cozy dinner is ready to be enjoyed!
FAQ about Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just ensure to follow the cooking times recommended on the package for the best results.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt may create a tangier sauce, so adjust to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or a bit of reserved pasta water to help revive the creamy sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. You’ll still get a deliciously creamy pasta!
