This creamy basil tomato pasta is a quick and tasty dinner solution. With fresh tomatoes, basil, and a rich sauce, it’s just what you need for busy weeknights!
If you’re like me, you can whip this up in no time, which means more time to binge your favorite show! Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is a fun choice because its shape holds sauce well! If you can’t find it, you can use any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work just fine.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes add sweetness, but if they aren’t available, diced Roma tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes are great alternatives. Just adjust your cooking time a bit!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half works well. You could also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version, which gives a slightly sweet flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic vegan substitute that offers a cheesy flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor, but if you don’t have it, dried basil can work in a pinch. Use about a teaspoon of dried for every tablespoon of fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Get Creamy Sauce?
The star of this dish is the creamy sauce, and getting it right is crucial! Here’s how to achieve that perfect creaminess:
- Start with sautéing garlic in olive oil until fragrant; it builds flavor.
- Add your tomatoes and allow them to cook down and burst, releasing their juices. This step adds natural sweetness!
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently to thicken. Stir often and keep an eye on the heat to avoid boiling.
- Mix in the Parmesan gradually until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Don’t forget to add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick—it helps to create that lush, creamy consistency.
With all these tips, you’re on your way to making a delicious creamy basil tomato pasta that everyone will love! Enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz orecchiette or your preferred pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or 3 Roma tomatoes, diced)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or whole for garnish
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil tomato pasta comes together in about 20-25 minutes! With just 10 minutes of prep and 15-20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orecchiette or whatever pasta you’re using. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Keep a cup of pasta water aside, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant but not browned. This adds a wonderful flavor to your dish!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes (or diced Roma tomatoes). Toss in the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat! Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to release their juices, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Create the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken a little, which should take about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love the creamy texture!
5. Add Cheese:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. For an extra indulgent flavor, you can add the optional tablespoon of butter at this point.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Carefully add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Mix in Basil:
Finally, fold in half of the fresh basil. Reserve the remaining basil for garnishing the dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil tomato pasta immediately, topped with additional fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends!
This creamy, comforting pasta dish is sure to become a favorite on your weeknight dinner rotation!
FAQ: Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is delicious, feel free to substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. For cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a store-bought vegan Parmesan.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil as a substitute! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. Just remember to add it earlier during the cooking process to allow its flavors to develop.
