Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

There’s something magical about the combination of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a creamy sauce coating a bowl of pasta. This recipe brings together the best of Italian-inspired flavors in a dish that is both easy to prepare and satisfying. If you’ve ever dreamed of making a restaurant-quality pasta at home but felt intimidated, this creamy tomato basil pasta is the perfect place to start.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick 30-minute cook time, this meal is ideal for beginner cooks who want to build confidence in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up fresh summer produce like garden tomatoes and basil.

Ingredients and Their Roles

This pasta dish comes together with just a few staple ingredients, each playing an important role in flavor and texture.

• Pasta – Any pasta shape works, but shells, penne, or fettuccine hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Butter and Flour – These create a simple roux, helping to thicken the sauce for a velvety texture.
• Garlic – Adds a deep, savory aroma and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• White Wine – Provides acidity and depth of flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, vegetable or chicken broth is a great substitute.
• Heavy Cream – The key to a luxuriously rich sauce. Lower-fat substitutes like half-and-half may work, but they won’t be as creamy.
• Dijon Mustard (Optional) – This adds a subtle tangy note without making the dish taste like mustard.
• Italian Seasoning – A convenient mix of dried herbs that infuses the sauce with classic Italian flavors.
• Fresh Tomatoes – The star ingredient! They add natural sweetness and juiciness to balance the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce for a savory, umami boost. Freshly grated Parmesan works best.
• Fresh Basil – The signature herb that ties everything together with its fresh, slightly peppery flavor.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

• Make it dairy-free – Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based cream, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Add protein – Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Use different herbs – If you have fresh oregano or thyme, they make excellent additions to this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about a minute to create a smooth roux. This will help thicken the sauce later.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for about a minute until it reduces by half.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Whisk in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and Italian seasoning until everything is combined. Add the chopped tomatoes and let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Toss in the drained pasta and mix until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible – Fresh tomatoes and basil make all the difference in flavor.
• Don’t overcook the garlic – It only takes about 30 seconds to become fragrant; burning it will create a bitter taste.
• Save some pasta water – The starchy water helps bind the sauce and can thin it out if needed.
• Add the Parmesan off the heat – This prevents it from clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy tomato basil pasta is fantastic on its own, but here are some ways to round out the meal:

• Salad – A fresh arugula or Caesar salad complements the rich sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish – If you want a protein boost, serve this pasta as a side dish with grilled chicken or salmon.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
• Freezing is not recommended – Cream-based sauces tend to separate when frozen and reheated.

Try This Recipe and Share Your Thoughts

Cooking should be fun, stress-free, and rewarding, especially when making simple, flavorful dishes like this creamy tomato basil pasta. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments. What pasta shape did you use? Did you add any fun twists? I’d love to hear your kitchen adventures!

FAQ About Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

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