This creamy basil tomato pasta is a tasty and comforting dish that blends fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rich cream. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Honestly, I can’t resist the smell of it cooking. It’s so easy to whip up on a weeknight, and I love adding extra cheese on top—because who doesn’t love cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: I recommend using medium to large pasta shells for a perfect bite. You can swap these for penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle if that’s what you have on hand!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but if you’re out, any vegetable oil will work. Some folks like using unsalted butter for a richer taste.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half. For a non-dairy alternative, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil really makes this dish shine! If you can’t get fresh, use about a teaspoon of dried basil. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice savory flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano works well too. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce without it curdling is key. Here’s how to do it right!
- Cook garlic in olive oil until fragrant but not browned. Overcooking can lead to bitterness.
- Add diced tomatoes and let them cook down for a few minutes. This helps integrate the flavors.
- When adding heavy cream, keep your heat low. You want it to mix in smoothly without boiling, which can cause curdling.
- Simmer gently until the sauce thickens. Stir often to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.
- Finally, don’t be shy with salt and pepper. They help enhance all those delicious flavors!
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and making the sauce, plus another 5-10 minutes to combine everything and serve. Quick and easy for a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once they are cooked, drain them and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the drained diced tomatoes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and warm through. This adds a lovely flavor to your sauce.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. This is when the magic happens, and your sauce becomes creamy!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and gently toss them in the creamy tomato sauce, making sure they are well-coated. This step is crucial for every bite to be flavorful!
6. Add Basil and Cheese:
Now, mix in the chopped basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything until it’s well combined. Don’t forget to taste it and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to serve your delicious pasta! Scoop the creamy basil tomato pasta onto plates and sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your meal while it’s warm and creamy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for pasta shells, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the shape you choose.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce will be less rich, but you might want to add a tablespoon of flour to thicken it. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Make sure to cook them until they just soften to maintain some texture.
