Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta

Irresistibly Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta: Your Quick Gourmet Fix


  • Author: grace bellamy
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh basil mingling with ripe summer tomatoes that instantly takes me back to lazy afternoons spent in my grandma’s sunny kitchen. I can still picture her effortlessly tossing spaghetti while the sun streamed through the windows, dust motes dancing in the warm light. Those simple pleasures inspired my Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta, a dish that’s just as comforting yet quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 tablespoon flour
  • 34 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken/vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup basil (tear it up) or more, to taste
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the 8 ounces of pasta according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt the butter: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Allow it to bubble slightly but not brown, creating a rich base for your sauce.
  3. Create the roux: Sprinkle 1/2 tablespoon of flour into the melted butter. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste and turns light golden.
  4. Add garlic and wine: Toss in 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and then pour in 1/4 cup of dry white wine (or broth). Let it bubble for 1-2 minutes until it reduces by half, infusing incredible flavor.
  5. Incorporate the cream: Whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with the 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is velvety and thickened slightly.
  6. Cook the tomatoes: Stir in 2 chopped medium tomatoes and let cook for about 5 minutes, just until they soften and release their juices into the sauce.
  7. Add cheese and basil: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of torn basil. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
  8. Combine with pasta: Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if necessary to thin it out. The sauce should cling beautifully to the pasta.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Plate your creamy basil tomato pasta immediately, garnishing with additional grated parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil make a world of difference in flavor. Avoid canned or dried versions for the best result.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Always cook your pasta al dente. It should have a slight bite so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy basil tomato sauce.
  • Cooking Time Matters: Once you add the tomatoes to the sauce, cook just until they soften. This keeps them juicy and vibrant without becoming mushy.
  • Avoid Low-Fat Cream: Substituting the heavy cream with lighter options can lead to a thinner sauce that curdles. Stick to full-fat for a rich, smooth texture.
  • Pasta Water Magic: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. This helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency for your Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta