This Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is a delicious and simple dish that brings comfort to any meal. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, creamy sauce, and fragrant basil for a burst of flavor!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just boil the pasta, mix in the creamy sauce, and sprinkle some basil on top. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when I want something tasty in a hurry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using penne or fusilli because they hold the sauce well. If you want a gluten-free option, try chickpea or rice pasta. For a lighter touch, whole wheat pasta is a great choice too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes offer sweetness but feel free to use canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Just drain them well before cooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, you can swap it with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Almond milk works too, but it’s less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the sharpness it adds! Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are excellent substitutes. Nutritional yeast is great for a vegan option, giving a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor. If you can’t find fresh, dried basil will work. Just use about a third of the amount since dried is stronger in flavor.
How Do You Cook Cherry Tomatoes to Perfection?
Cooking tomatoes until they’re just soft is key to bringing out their natural flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic when you add it to the oil.
- Cook the tomatoes in olive oil until they begin to burst, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Don’t rush! If they haven’t broken down, give them a bit more time. You want them soft and juicy.
These steps ensure a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta. Enjoy!
How to Make Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- Oil & Garlic:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Tomatoes:
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- Sauce Components:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Basil:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing and 10 minutes cooking. Quick, simple, and so delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm but not hard). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them while stirring occasionally for about 6-8 minutes until they soften and start to break down. This is where the flavor comes to life!
4. Season the Mixture:
Add salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes to the tomatoes. Stir well to mix in all those wonderful flavors.
5. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add Cheese:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter (if you’re using it). Keep stirring until everything is melted and creamy.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the creamy sauce. Mix it gently to combine all the ingredients.
8. Finish with Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, letting its wonderful aroma enhance the dish.
9. Serve It Up:
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra basil leaves and more Parmesan if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Happy cooking! Your Easy Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fusilli work great, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, like spaghetti or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. For a lower-calorie option, try using Greek yogurt, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and omit the butter. You’ll still have a delicious creamy dish!
