Irresistible Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta in 30 Minutes

When the aroma of simmering tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy goodness wafts through the air, it’s hard not to feel a sense of comfort. That’s exactly what you get with creamy tomato basil pasta—a dish that wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. It’s like your favorite cozy sweater, but for your taste buds.

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Picture this: a chaotic weeknight, everyone is hangry, and dinner is still a distant dream. Enter creamy tomato basil pasta, ready to save the day. This dish is not just food; it’s a culinary superhero that swoops in to save your sanity while delivering an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. Trust me; your family will love you for it.

I still remember the first time I made this dish—it was an impromptu dinner party that turned into a hilarious disaster, complete with spilled flour and overly enthusiastic garlic chopping. But when I served this creamy tomato basil pasta? Everyone was too busy devouring their plates to care about my kitchen chaos.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta of Your Choice: I recommend fettuccine or penne; they hold the sauce beautifully and give you that perfect bite.

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes; they are the backbone of this sauce’s flavor.

• Fresh Basil: The fresher, the better! It adds that aromatic lift we all crave in our dishes.

• Heavy Cream: For that luscious texture; don’t skimp here unless you want a sad sauce.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring out wonderful flavors. Avoid the pre-minced stuff if you can; trust me on this.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated freshly for maximum flavor impact—because who doesn’t love cheese?

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for drizzling and sautéing; it enhances everything beautifully!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the wonderful flavors in this dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—and then toss in the canned diced tomatoes.

Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in heavy cream once the tomatoes start bubbling happily. Stir gently for about 3-5 minutes until combined beautifully.

Incorporate Basil and Seasonings: Toss in fresh basil leaves along with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything mingle together for about 2 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add your cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing it gently with the sauce until thoroughly coated. If needed, add a splash of pasta water for extra creaminess.

Finish with Parmesan Cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle grated parmesan on top. Stir well until melted into that dreamy sauce we all adore.

Now sit back and enjoy your creation! This creamy tomato basil pasta will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

This recipe is one of those delightful dishes that makes cooking fun rather than stressful. So throw on some music, pour yourself a glass of wine (or sparkling water if it’s Monday), and let’s get cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add diced tomatoes and cook until saucy. Meanwhile, boil your pasta and toss it in the sauce for a unified flavor explosion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with this creamy tomato basil pasta by adding spinach, grilled chicken, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Customize to your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover creamy tomato basil pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a cozy family dinner where laughter filled the air and everyone devoured seconds—definitely a memory worth cherishing!

FAQ

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use Greek yogurt or cashew cream as lighter alternatives in creamy tomato basil pasta.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions for extra protein.

How do I make it vegan?

Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and ensure the pasta is egg-free for a vegan option.

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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy tomato basil pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the richness of heavy cream with the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal, making it a family favorite. With its vibrant colors and luscious texture, it’s sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether enjoyed on its own or customized with proteins and veggies, this pasta is a delicious hug in a bowl that will leave everyone wanting more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add canned diced tomatoes to the skillet; bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until combined.
5. Incorporate fresh basil and season with salt and pepper; cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until evenly coated; add a splash of pasta water if needed.
7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, stir until melted, and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: - For added nutrition, consider mixing in spinach or grilled chicken. - For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.