Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Equipment:
Large pot
colander
skillet
wooden spoon
measuring cups
measuring spoons

Cuisine Type: Italian

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This recipe features al dente pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, enhanced with fresh basil and a hint of garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for the whole family.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheese creates a delightful sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Extra basil for garnish

Instructions:

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once cooked al dente, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing it to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped basil and grated parmesan cheese until everything is well combined. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and more parmesan if desired.

Extra Tips:

For additional flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a bit of heat. You can also customize this dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. Don’t forget to taste your sauce as you go, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preferences.

Enjoy your delicious creamy tomato basil pasta!