Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta Recipe – Quick & Easy Dinner

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Orecchiette is a great choice for this recipe because its little “ears” catch the sauce beautifully. If you can’t find it, any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti will work well.

Tomatoes: Fresh cherry or Roma tomatoes add vibrant flavor. If you’re short on fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes (about 14 oz) instead.

Heavy Cream: This gives a rich, creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream—though it may change the flavor slightly.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor as a substitute.

Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, consider using parsley or even a dried Italian herb mix, although fresh herbs work best.

How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?

Creating a delicious creamy sauce might seem tricky, but with some simple steps, you can get it just right. The key is to incorporate the cream gradually and cook thoughtfully.

• Start by heating the olive oil and sautéing the garlic without burning it—this can turn your sauce bitter.
• When adding the tomatoes, let them cook down enough to release their juices. This adds natural sweetness to the sauce.
• Once you’ve stirred in the cream, keep simmering on low. If it starts to bubble too much, reduce the heat.
• Adding cheese is crucial; do it off the heat for a smoother sauce. Stir until melted, ensuring it blends well.
• If the sauce is too thick after mixing in the pasta, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to adjust the creaminess without making it runny.

With these tips, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that everyone loves!

How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or your preferred pasta)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes or 2 large Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some whole leaves for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

Time Needed:

This delicious creamy basil tomato pasta takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and sauce, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the orecchiette pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside while you make the sauce.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant without burning, so keep a close eye on it.

3. Add the Tomatoes:

Once the garlic is ready, stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook them until they soften and release their juices, creating a flavorful base for your sauce.

4. Make It Creamy:

Next, stir in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and combine nicely with the tomatoes.

5. Add the Cheese:

Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir it until it melts into the sauce. This will enhance the creaminess and add that delicious cheesy flavor that makes pasta so comforting!

6. Combine with Pasta:

After the cheese has melted, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Flavor It Up:

Fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves, and season to taste with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer your creamy basil tomato pasta to serving plates, and garnish with extra Parmesan and whole basil leaves for that fresh touch. Enjoy this delightful meal right away!

Bon Appétit! This creamy basil tomato pasta is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta will work well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as the cooking times may differ slightly.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that using coconut cream will add a hint of coconut flavor to the dish.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or additional cream when microwaving or warming on the stove to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Can I Make This Dish Vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. You can also add more veggies for added nourishment!