Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: A Comforting Delight Recipe

The aroma of creamy tomato basil pasta wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and luscious cream. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or an elegant gathering with friends.

I remember the first time I made this dish my family was skeptical when they heard “tomato” and “cream” together. But one taste had them singing its praises Now, it’s our go-to meal for spontaneous gatherings and lazy Sundays alike. The anticipation builds as the sauce simmers, creating a symphony of flavors that promises to delight.

Sharing a plate of this pasta always brings smiles and happy chatter around the table.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta: Any type works, but I love using fettuccine for its ability to hold sauce beautifully.
• Fresh Basil: Use vibrant green leaves for the best flavor they’ll elevate your sauce to new heights.
• Canned Whole Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality ones they provide a sweet base that enhances the sauce’s depth.
• Heavy Cream: For that dreamy texture, full-fat cream is essential no skimping here
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic touch that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh for maximum flavor it adds a salty richness that ties everything together.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance all the other ingredients beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all those lovely flavors in your dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the basil and garlic. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant about 1 minute being careful not to burn it.

Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Pour in canned tomatoes with their juice. Crush them gently with a spoon while simmering for about 10 minutes this caramelizes their natural sweetness.

Stir in Cream & Seasoning: Lower heat and stir in heavy cream along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until heated through and slightly thickened around 5 minutes should do.

Toss in Pasta & Basil: Combine the drained pasta with the sauce and add fresh basil. Toss everything together until well coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

This creamy tomato basil pasta isn’t just delicious it’s also super easy to whip up on busy nights Enjoy every twirl of that forkful as you savor the delightful flavors mingling on your palate.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then prepare the sauce while it cooks, combining flavors for maximum richness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid drying out.

Sharing this creamy tomato basil pasta with friends brings back memories of laughter-filled dinners and compliments galore.

FAQ

Can I make creamy tomato basil pasta vegan?

Absolutely Substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich vegan option.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine or penne are great choices that hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.

How can I enhance the flavor of my sauce?

Adding garlic and onion while sautéing will deepen the flavor profile significantly.

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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining luscious cream, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a dish that warms your soul. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will please both kids and adults alike. With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups canned whole tomatoes (high-quality)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Chop the basil and mince the garlic.
2. Boil salted water in a large pot, add fettuccine, and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice, crush gently, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Lower heat to add heavy cream, salt, and pepper; cook until heated through (about 5 minutes).
6. Combine drained pasta with sauce and fresh basil, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 80mg