Save A luscious, comforting pasta dish featuring a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with fresh basil. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
I've always found this creamy tomato basil pasta to be my go to when I want something quick yet impressive for guests, and it never disappoints.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne or fettuccine, Salt for pasta water
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp sugar, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 ml (¼ cup) whole milk, 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh Herbs & Garnish: 20 g (¾ cup) fresh basil leaves chopped plus extra for garnish, Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) pasta water then drain.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 5:
- Add cooked pasta and chopped basil to the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan.
Save This dish brings my family together every time we enjoy a hearty dinner with smiles all around.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, milk, Parmesan) and wheat (pasta). For gluten free use gluten free pasta. For dairy free use plant based cream and cheese substitutes. Always check labels for allergens if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Calories 485, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 62 g, Protein 14 g per serving
Save Enjoy this creamy tomato basil pasta as a comforting meal any night of the week, perfect for bringing loved ones to the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or fettuccine are ideal as they hold the creamy tomato basil sauce well and offer a satisfying bite.
- → Can I adjust the creaminess of the sauce?
Yes, adding reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency, making it smoother or thicker based on preference.
- → How do I enhance the flavor of the tomato sauce?
Sautéing onions and garlic first deepens the sauce's flavor, while a pinch of sugar balances acidity from the tomatoes.
- → What can I use to add a slight heat to the dish?
Crushed red pepper flakes can be added in small amounts to introduce a subtle spicy kick.
- → Are there easy substitutions for dairy ingredients?
Plant-based cream and cheese alternatives can replace dairy for those seeking a dairy-free version without sacrificing texture.