This creamy basil tomato pasta is a comforting dish that brings together fresh basil, sweet tomatoes, and a cheesy twist. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor!
You can whip this up on a busy day and still impress your family. I love adding extra cheese on top because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love gooey, melty goodness? 🧀
Making this pasta is a breeze! Just cook the pasta, mix in the creamy sauce, and sprinkle with basil. It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to brighten your mealtime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using orecchiette for its unique shape that holds the sauce beautifully. However, any pasta works great! Feel free to swap it for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Tomatoes: Fresh cherry or Roma tomatoes give the best flavor. If they aren’t in season, canned diced tomatoes can work as a substitute. Just drain them well before adding.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a vegan twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the dish. If you want a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast as a cheesy-flavored alternative. Just keep in mind that it won’t melt like traditional cheese.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that vibrant flavor. In a pinch, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount since it’s more potent. If you’re not a fan of basil, fresh spinach or arugula can offer a nice twist!
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy without Clumping?
A smooth, creamy sauce is key to this dish! Here are some tips to prevent clumping:
- Always cook your garlic first to release its flavor, being careful not to let it burn.
- When adding heavy cream, keep the heat low and stir gently to combine. This helps the cream blend smoothly with the tomatoes.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly. This encourages it to melt evenly and prevents clumping. If your sauce seems thick, don’t hesitate to add small amounts of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency!
These simple steps will ensure your creamy basil tomato pasta turns out perfectly luscious every time!
How to Make Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta – Easy & Cheesy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) orecchiette pasta or your preferred pasta shape
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra whole leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes for the pasta to cook and another 10 minutes to prepare the sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal or when you have guests over!
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 pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Once done, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma. Be careful not to let it brown, or it will become bitter!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the tomatoes to soften and start breaking down, creating a tasty sauce base.
4. Add Cream:
Now it’s time to stir in the heavy cream! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Incorporate the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. If you find the sauce too thick for your liking, pour in a little of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season the Sauce:
Mix in the chopped fresh basil leaves, then season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Give it a final stir to combine everything nicely!
7. Combine with Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it well in the creamy tomato-basil sauce, making sure every piece of pasta is coated with that luscious goodness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with whole fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your rich, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that will impress everyone at the table!
Bon appétit! 🍝
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stove with a splash of additional cream or pasta water to bring back the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can easily modify this recipe to be vegan-friendly by using a plant-based cream alternative and omitting the Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast can be used in place of cheese for a cheesy flavor.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy basil tomato pasta pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. If you’re looking for a lighter side, roasted vegetables or steamed greens make great accompaniments!
