Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Get Ready for a Flavor Explosion!

Imagine the aroma of fresh basil mingling with the richness of creamy tomatoes popping up in your kitchen. You’ll want to grab a bowl and dive right in! This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is not just another dinner recipe; it’s a one-pan delight that’s exploded in popularity for all the right reasons. Easy to whip up and utterly delicious, it’s perfect for those cozy nights when you crave comfort and flavor.

Why Make This Recipe?

Why not? Here are a few compelling reasons to get your apron on:

• Super Simple: No need to be a culinary genius. This dish is practically foolproof. If you can boil water, you can make this pasta!
• Easy Cleanup: One pot means less scrubbing later—your future self will thank you for this one.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall head over heels for this creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s basically an invitation to the table for everyone!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 8 oz pasta
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the pasta along with salt and pepper. Cook according to the pasta package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh basil and mozzarella cheese until the cheese is melted and the basil is wilted.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta (Overview)

Ready for the nitty-gritty? Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3! Start by tossing garlic in olive oil to awaken its flavor. Next, mix in crushed tomatoes, broth, and cream, letting it simmer like the Italian grandmothers would approve of. Add your pasta until it’s perfectly tender, then finish with fresh basil and gooey mozzarella. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference in flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Let’s talk presentation! Serve your Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta in vibrant bowls, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of cheese. The contrast between the luscious cream and bright green basil creates a feast for the eyes! Pair it with a crusty bread to mop up all that sauce, and watch as the aroma pulls everyone to the dinner table. 🤤

How to Store Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This pasta dish holds up beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Want to make it ahead? You can prep the sauce, let it cool, and toss it with the cooked pasta before serving. Just reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of cream if it thickens up too much!

Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Here’s the insider scoop to level up your pasta game:

1. Add spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick; you’ll never look back!
2. Swap the cheese: Use parmesan for a sharp flavor, or skip dairy altogether for a vegan version.
3. Herb it up: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist on flavor.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? You can switch up the flavors easily. Go for a vegan take by replacing heavy cream with coconut milk and mozzarella with cashew cheese. Add some sautéed veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and texture. Who doesn’t love a little extra green on their plate? 😉

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil makes a world of difference in flavor! If you must, use 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving for optimal texture.

How can I freeze this dish?
Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers. It keeps well for about 3 months! Just remember to defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

A flavorful and creamy pasta dish, perfect for cozy nights with a blend of fresh basil, rich tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella.

Imprimer la recette Pin Recipe

Temps de préparation 10 minutes min

Temps de cuisson 20 minutes min

Temps total 30 minutes min

Portions: 4 servings

Type de plat: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 540

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingrédients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta Use your favorite type of pasta.
• 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes Canned tomatoes add depth of flavor.
• 1 cup vegetable broth Substitute with chicken broth if desired.
• 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped Fresh basil is crucial for flavor.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Can substitute with parmesan for different flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Toasted for better flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
• Olive oil for cooking Use enough to coat the bottom of the pot.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Cooking

1. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
2. Add the pasta along with salt and pepper. Cook according to the pasta package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh basil and mozzarella cheese until the cheese is melted and the basil is wilted.

Serving

1. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For meal prep, cool the sauce and toss it with the cooked pasta before serving. Add a splash of cream to reheat if necessary.