Name: Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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If you’re craving something indulgently comforting yet refreshingly vibrant, this Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is exactly what you need. It beautifully marries the richness of velvety cream with the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh basil and the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes. Every forkful bursts with flavor, and the simplicity of the ingredients makes this dish a perfect weeknight winner or an impressive treat for friends and family. Once you try this creamy basil tomato pasta, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this delightful Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is all about using fresh, straightforward ingredients that really shine together. Each one plays an essential role in creating the dish’s perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.

12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): The base of the dish, cooked al dente to hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the garlic without overpowering it.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses a warm, aromatic depth that’s essential for a robust sauce.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides a naturally tangy and juicy component that’s the heart of the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Brings luxurious creaminess, softening the acidity of the tomatoes and creating a velvety texture.
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the cream and tomato.
Salt to taste: Enhances every flavor and balances the dish perfectly.
Pepper to taste: Adds a subtle hint of spice that livens up the creamy sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A finishing touch that delivers a salty, nutty kick if you like.

How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta, whether it’s penne or fettuccine, and cook it until al dente according to the package instructions. The slight firmness is key to holding the creamy basil tomato sauce without becoming mushy. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add your minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute until it becomes fragrant and golden. This step infuses your olive oil with that irresistible garlic aroma, setting the stage for the sauce.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes

Next, add the canned diced tomatoes straight into the pan. Let them simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to reduce slightly and the flavors to concentrate, creating a bright, juicy base for your creamy basil tomato pasta sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Turn the heat down to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir thoroughly to blend it with the tomatoes, transforming the sauce into a luscious, pink-hued creaminess that’s both hearty and smooth. Let this cook for another 5 minutes to allow everything to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Basil and Seasonings

Now’s the moment to add your freshly chopped basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. The basil injects that fresh, herbal brightness that makes this pasta unique and memorable. Stir gently to keep the basil vibrant and to evenly distribute the seasoning.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every bite is richly coated with the creamy basil tomato mixture. If you find the sauce a touch thick, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to achieve your perfect consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the creamy basil tomato pasta piping hot. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels both exquisitely indulgent and comfortingly homey.

How to Serve Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves on top add a pretty touch and fresh aroma just before serving. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or even a few red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile by adding complexity and a bit of heat if that’s your style.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in simple vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also add freshness and color to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, try layering the creamy basil tomato pasta in a shallow baking dish, topping with extra cheese, and baking until bubbly and golden. Or serve it in individual bowls garnished with whole basil leaves and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a restaurant-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover creamy basil tomato pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more after sitting for a while, making it a delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

While the cream sauce’s texture can change slightly after freezing, you can freeze the pasta if needed. Place it in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently, preferably on the stovetop to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta slowly in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce as it warms. This helps revive that wonderful creamy texture without separating the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the sauce?

Absolutely! Fresh, ripe tomatoes can be used instead of canned. Just blanch and peel them first, then dice and simmer until they break down into a sauce. This gives a fresh, garden-like flavor to your creamy basil tomato pasta.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream for this recipe?

You can try substituting half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain a robust flavor.

What pasta shapes work best with Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta?

Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even farfalle work wonderfully. The sauce clings best to pasta with some ridges or flat surfaces, ensuring every bite is luscious.

Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu cubes complement the creamy basil tomato pasta beautifully and make the meal more filling.

How do I keep the basil bright and fresh in the sauce?

Add the basil at the end of cooking and avoid prolonged cooking after adding it. This preserves its fresh aroma and vibrant green color.

Final Thoughts

Making Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta at home is like inviting a little joy onto your plate with every creamy, herb-filled bite. It’s a perfect balance of comfort and freshness that feels both luxurious and easy. Next time you want a dish to impress or just lift your spirits, this recipe will be waiting to deliver all that warmth and flavor you crave.

Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This creamy basil tomato pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente pasta tossed in a rich, velvety tomato and cream sauce infused with fresh basil and garlic. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)

Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

For Serving

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it as burnt garlic can become bitter.
Simmer Tomatoes: Add the canned diced tomatoes to the frying pan. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thickens.
Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then pour the heavy cream into the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is heated through and creamy.
Add Basil and Season: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves, then season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste. Mix gently to combine all the flavors.
Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, optionally garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness and umami.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned if preferred, about 2 cups chopped.
Adding red pepper flakes to the garlic step can bring a nice subtle heat to the dish.
Fresh basil is essential for the authentic flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch—use 1 teaspoon dried basil instead.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian