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
Scale
- 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