Imagine a plate of pasta so creamy and rich, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Our Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you to the sun-soaked hills of Italy with every bite. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Ready to dive into a world of flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn.
- Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the skillet with the garlic. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add the drained pasta directly into the tomato cream sauce. Toss gently to coat every pasta strand evenly.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it.
- Remove from heat and fold in the chopped fresh basil, allowing its aromatic oils to release into the hot pasta.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls. Optional: Garnish with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta will work, consider using fettuccine or penne for a heartier bite that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding salt to your pasta water is crucial. It enhances the flavor of the pasta and sets the foundation for a delicious dish.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan cheese. They elevate the dish and bring out the vibrant Italian essence.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half for a less rich option.
- Save Some Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water can be a lifesaver! If your sauce is too thick, just add a splash of the reserved water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves on top before serving adds a lovely finishing touch and makes your dish look restaurant-worthy.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your pasta by adding cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
