Go Back
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy goodness, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With a few versatile ingredients, you can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer it mild or with a little kick.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta in 30 Minutes

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, a simple yet delicious dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe features rich tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy goodness that blend beautifully together. With easy-to-follow steps and versatile ingredients, you can customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this pasta is sure to please everyone at the table. Discover the joy of cooking and savor every bite!

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well)

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

1 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 tsp black pepper

Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.

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

      Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the sugar, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

        Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

          Incorporate Basil: Stir the chopped basil into the sauce, reserving a bit for garnish if desired. Mix until the basil is well incorporated.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy tomato basil sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.

              Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasonings if necessary. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil and more Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  10 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings