Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta has a way of making any night feel special, even a Tuesday! I remember the first time I made this dish, the aroma of garlic and fresh basil filling my kitchen was simply intoxicating. It’s that perfect blend of bright, tangy tomatoes and rich, velvety cream, all clinging to perfectly cooked pasta. This easy creamy tomato basil pasta recipe is my go-to when I want a comforting, restaurant-quality meal without all the fuss. You’re going to love how quickly this comes together and how incredibly satisfying it is. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
This dish is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of sweet tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil is pure magic.
- Quick Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: It’s genuinely a quick creamy tomato basil pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: Seriously, it’s a simple creamy tomato basil pasta to whip up, even for beginners.
- Comfort Food Perfection: It’s warm, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying – pure comfort in a bowl.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with added veggies or protein to suit your taste.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Taste: You get gourmet flavor with very little fuss.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters adore this rich and creamy pasta.
Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Basil Pasta with Cream
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious dish. You’ll need:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti) – choose your favorite shape!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – the backbone of our flavor
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – these form the rich base of our sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is what makes it wonderfully creamy
- 1 teaspoon sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a classic Italian herb note
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – essential for seasoning
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped – for that bright, fresh basil aroma
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving – essential for that savory, nutty finish that makes it a true Parmesan tomato basil pasta
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – for a little kick
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Ready to whip up this incredible dish? Follow these simple steps for the best creamy tomato basil pasta you’ve ever tasted!
- Step 1: Get your pasta cooking first. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 12 oz pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before you drain it, carefully reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water – this is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Then, drain the pasta.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, start on the sauce. Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Step 3: Pour in the 14 oz can of crushed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This is the base of our amazing tomato basil pasta sauce.
- Step 4: Stir in the 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly drizzle in the 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and takes on a beautiful creamy texture. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, gradually add some of that reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired creamy consistency. This step is crucial for getting that luxurious feel in your creamy tomato basil pasta.
- Step 6: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure every strand or piece of pasta is beautifully coated in the rich, creamy tomato basil sauce.
- Step 7: Stir in the 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh basil and the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, creating a luscious, cheesy coating.
- Step 8: Taste your masterpiece! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. You’ve now mastered how to make creamy tomato basil pasta!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Want to elevate your homemade tomato basil pasta with cream? Try these simple tricks for guaranteed success every time:
- Always use good quality crushed tomatoes; they make a big difference in the sauce flavor.
- Don’t skip reserving the pasta water! It’s the key to achieving that perfect, silky sauce consistency.
- Add the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese right at the end, off the heat, to preserve their fresh flavor and prevent the cheese from clumping.
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?
The real secret to the best creamy tomato basil pasta is using the starchy pasta water to emulsify the sauce. It helps bind the cream and tomatoes together beautifully, creating a velvety texture that clings to the pasta. For more tips on pasta making, check out our guide on spaghetti with garlic and oil.
Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, then toss with freshly cooked pasta. The assembled dish is best enjoyed fresh.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?
Avoid overheating the sauce after adding the cream, as it can sometimes break. Also, be sure not to overcook your pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Pasta with Tomato and Basil
This delightful dish is wonderful on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a complete meal, I love serving this creamy tomato pasta with fresh basil alongside a crisp, refreshing green salad. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. Another fantastic option is crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra bits of that luscious tomato basil cream sauce. These simple additions really elevate the entire dining experience, making it feel like a special occasion. You can find a great recipe for crusty bread that would be perfect here.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
When you’re enjoying this delicious dish, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving of this creamy tomato basil pasta:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
You’ll notice I haven’t listed specific amounts for sugar and sodium, as these can vary quite a bit depending on the brand of crushed tomatoes and the salt you add. Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Leftovers of this delightful creamy tomato basil pasta are a treat, but proper storage is key to keeping it delicious. Once it has cooled down completely, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. This helps prevent the sauce from drying out and keeps it fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. While freezing the fully assembled dish can sometimes affect the creaminess, you can freeze the sauce itself if you plan ahead. Reheating is super simple; you can gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, or use the microwave. Just remember to add a small splash of milk, cream, or even water when reheating to restore that lovely creamy texture to your tomato basil cream sauce pasta.
Variations of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta You Can Try
This creamy tomato basil pasta recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also incredibly versatile. If you’re looking to switch things up or add more substance, here are a few ideas:
- Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or even some Italian sausage to make this a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Boost: Wilt in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or sautéed zucchini and bell peppers right at the end with the basil for extra veggies.
- Healthy Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: For a lighter take on this classic, try using half-and-half or even a blend of Greek yogurt and milk instead of heavy cream. This creates a wonderfully light yet still creamy sauce.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a good quality vegan cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
What kind of tomatoes are best for Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?
For the richest flavor in your creamy tomato basil pasta, I highly recommend using a good quality canned crushed San Marzano tomatoes. They have a naturally sweeter taste and lower acidity compared to regular tomatoes, which really makes a difference. If you can’t find San Marzano, any good quality canned crushed tomatoes will work well to create that delicious tomato basil pasta sauce base. For more information on tomatoes, you can read about cherry tomatoes.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil in this recipe?
You absolutely can use dried basil if fresh isn’t available, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, added along with the oregano in Step 4. Fresh basil really adds that signature bright, aromatic quality that makes this dish so special, so I always try to use it for the best creamy tomato basil pasta experience.
What is creamy tomato basil pasta and why is it so good?
Creamy tomato basil pasta is a classic Italian-American comfort food dish featuring pasta coated in a rich, velvety sauce made from tomatoes, cream, garlic, and fresh basil. It’s so good because it hits all the right notes: the tanginess of the tomatoes, the sweetness from the cream, the aromatic punch of garlic and basil, and the satisfying texture of the pasta. It’s simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious! For a different pasta experience, try our pappardelle with beef ragu.
How do I make a lighter version of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?
To make a lighter creamy tomato basil pasta, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken it. Another option is to use Greek yogurt or sour cream stirred in at the very end, off the heat, to prevent curdling. This results in a delicious, healthy creamy tomato basil pasta without sacrificing too much of that comforting creaminess. You might also enjoy our roasted carrot soup for a lighter meal.
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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: 1 Hour Delicious
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy creamy tomato basil pasta recipe that combines ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich cream for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually pour in heavy cream, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Add drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese until cheese is melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.
- A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, while smoked paprika adds a smoky depth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place pasta in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream, stirring until heated through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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