If you’re looking for a cozy, indulgent meal that’s bursting with flavor but doesn’t take all night to make, this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is the answer. It’s everything you crave in a comfort food dish—rich, creamy, and full of that irresistible Italian flavor we all love. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining at a fancy restaurant without leaving your kitchen. Bonus points—it’s quick, easy, and perfect for the whole family.
Trust me, this dish is going to be a new favorite. It’s creamy without being too heavy, tangy with just the right amount of acidity from the tomatoes, and the fresh basil adds a pop of herby brightness that takes it to the next level. You can even customize it to your liking with add-ins like chicken, shrimp, or veggies, and you’re still going to have a flavorful, satisfying dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this creamy tomato basil pasta, and I think you’ll agree once you’ve made it. First off, it’s packed with easy-to-find ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Second, it’s totally customizable to fit your dietary preferences. You can make it vegan, gluten-free, or even add extra protein if that’s what you’re craving.
But what really makes this recipe stand out is the balance of flavors—creamy, tangy, and fresh all in one bite. Plus, it’s super kid-friendly and makes an awesome family dinner. This dish is just that perfect combination of comfort and nutrition, and trust me, it’ll never feel like “just another pasta night.”
What Makes This Recipe Special?
There are tons of creamy pasta recipes out there, but this one holds a special place for several reasons.
First, the sauce is incredibly flavorful—crushed tomatoes, garlic, cream, and Parmesan create the most luscious sauce that coats each piece of pasta beautifully. The addition of fresh basil really enhances that classic Italian flavor profile, making it both light and comforting at the same time.
Another thing that makes this recipe a winner? It’s super versatile. You can easily switch up the pasta, add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or even throw in some extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritional boost. It’s truly a one-size-fits-all kind of dish.
And let’s not forget—this pasta comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for when you’re trying to figure out what to make for dinner without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or shells)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh, peeled and chopped)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes, a splash of white wine, or balsamic vinegar
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
How to Make It Step-by-Step
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic smells amazing.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes if you’re using them) along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 8–10 minutes, allowing it to thicken up slightly.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. The cream will add richness and make the sauce smooth and velvety.
- Finish the Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, flavorful base that will coat your pasta beautifully.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, use some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the creamy tomato basil pasta hot, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for a finishing touch.
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality tomatoes: Whether you’re using canned or fresh tomatoes, the quality makes a big difference in flavor. If you can, opt for San Marzano tomatoes—they add a natural sweetness that really enhances the sauce.
- Don’t skip the basil: Fresh basil is key to achieving that fresh, vibrant Italian flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with 1–2 teaspoons of dried basil, but fresh is best.
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon when making pasta sauces. It helps to thin out the sauce and make it cling to the pasta more effectively.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you want a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a plant-based cream for a vegan-friendly option.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Protein Additions: Want to make it heartier? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a protein-packed meal. If you’re vegan, try tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost.
- Cream Alternatives: You can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream or almond milk if you’re looking to lighten things up or go dairy-free.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to toss in some extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted zucchini. They’ll add color, nutrients, and texture to your dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, try stirring in some red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili paste. It’ll elevate the dish with a spicy, smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- Drinks: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the richness of this pasta. If you’re going alcohol-free, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing and complements the flavors nicely.
- Sides: Pair this pasta with a simple side salad (think arugula with lemon and olive oil) or some freshly baked garlic bread. A light vegetable side like roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach would also be a great addition.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it gently in a pan on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of cream or water to help refresh the sauce and bring back that creamy texture.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce can separate when frozen. However, if you’d like to make the sauce ahead, you can prepare the tomato cream sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just cook your pasta and toss everything together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta and make sure it’s al dente—overcooked pasta will make the dish feel mushy and heavy.
- Skipping the reserved pasta water: It’s key to making sure your sauce sticks to the pasta and doesn’t dry out. Don’t skip this step!
- Using too much cream: This dish is rich, but you don’t want the sauce to become too heavy. Stick to the recommended amount of cream for the perfect balance of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Simply peel and chop about 2 cups of ripe tomatoes. Simmer them longer to reduce the liquid and achieve the right consistency. - What pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, and shells are all great options, but you can use whatever pasta you have on hand! - Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based cream like coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. - How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking the sauce
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board for chopping garlic and basil
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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or shells)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt, to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Optional red pepper flakes, a splash of white wine, or balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
- Stir in the cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and chopped basil until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Use pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan and basil on top.
