Save to Pinterest A luscious, comforting pasta dish featuring a velvety tomato cream sauce infused with fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant yet easy meal.
This creamy tomato basil pasta quickly became a favorite in my home as it combines rich flavors with simplicity in preparation.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne or fettuccine
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 can (400 g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 ml (¼ cup) vegetable broth or reserved pasta water, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt or to taste, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional), 20 g (¾ oz) fresh basil leaves chopped, 40 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Sauté Onion:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes vegetable broth (or reserved pasta water) sugar salt black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 8 10 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Add Cream:
- Reduce heat to low. Add the heavy cream stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
- Finish Sauce:
- Toss in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese stirring until the cheese has melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.
Save to Pinterest Making this dish always brings my family together around the table and sparks lively conversation.
Notes
For a vegan version use plant-based cream and cheese Add sautéed mushrooms spinach or grilled chicken for extra protein Pairs beautifully with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Large pot Skillet Wooden spoon Colander Chefs knife
Nutritional Information
Calories 470 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 65 g Protein 14 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Serve this pasta immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.
Questions & Answers
- → What pasta type works best for this dish?
Penne or fettuccine both hold the creamy tomato sauce well, but you can use any pasta with good surface texture to capture the flavors.
- → Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes, substitute dairy cream with plant-based cream alternatives and use vegan cheese to keep the richness without animal products.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Add reserved pasta water gradually to the sauce while tossing the pasta; its starchiness helps loosen and bind the sauce smoothly.
- → Is fresh basil necessary, or can I use dried?
Fresh basil provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor and aroma. Dried basil can be used in a pinch but won’t deliver the same freshness.
- → What wine pairs well with this creamy tomato pasta?
A crisp Pinot Grigio complements the richness with refreshing acidity, balancing the creamy texture and herbaceous notes.