This creamy basil tomato pasta is a perfect blend of fresh flavors and smooth sauce. With just a few ingredients, it’s quick to whip up for lunch or dinner!
I love how this dish makes my kitchen smell amazing, like an Italian restaurant! A sprinkle of cheese on top makes each bite even better. It’s a family favorite around here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is fun and holds the sauce well, but any small pasta like penne or fusilli would work just fine. Choose what you have on hand!
Olive Oil: I love using extra-virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or melted butter will work too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the taste, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative if you’re out of fresh cloves. Just use less!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are great for taste, but canned ones are a good pantry staple. Go for diced or crushed tomatoes for convenience.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut cream if you’re dairy-free.
Basil: Fresh basil adds wonderful flavor. If you only have dried basil, use about 1 tsp, but fresh is definitely better!
How Do I Create a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling It?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right:
- After sautéing the garlic and tomatoes, reduce the heat to low before adding cream. High heat can cause the cream to curdle.
- Stir the cream in gently and let it warm up with the sauce for a minute before adding cheese.
- If the sauce thickens too much, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
These tips will keep your sauce smooth and luxurious. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced (or about 1½ cups canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus more for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil tomato pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the pasta while you whip up the sauce in another 10 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and oh so delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta but keep about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
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 for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; you want it just golden!
3. Create the Tomato Sauce:
Next, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the tomatoes to break down and form a lovely chunky sauce.
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Once the tomatoes are soft, lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and well mixed. If you find the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Season and Combine:
Stir in the fresh basil and season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. This will really elevate the flavor!
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so that the pasta is coated in that delicious creamy tomato basil sauce. Warm it through for about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately in bowls, garnished with more fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. Dig in and enjoy your wonderfully rich and creamy basil tomato pasta!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Use whatever you have on hand!
How Can I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based cream (like coconut or cashew cream) and substitute nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan for cheese. Adjust the seasoning to taste!
What Can I Serve with Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine for a complete meal!
