Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves a rich, flavorful pasta dish. Combining the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the aromatic taste of basil, and the luxurious creaminess of the sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal any time of year, but especially when tomatoes and basil are in season during the summer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato basil pasta is a quick, easy, and delicious meatless meal that can be made in just 30 minutes. The creamy sauce is rich without being overwhelming, and the balance of fresh basil and tangy tomatoes adds a burst of flavor. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting pasta dish. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile—add more basil or Parmesan to taste, or even toss in some grilled chicken or vegetables for variety.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 tablespoon flour

• 3-4 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 (torn into pieces) or more, to taste

• Salt & pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Boil a salted pot of water for the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, sprinkle the flour into the pan and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.

3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, followed by the white wine (or broth). Let it bubble and reduce by half, which should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

4. Whisk in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn basil.

7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

8. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.

• Vegan version: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use dairy-free Parmesan to make this dish vegan-friendly.

• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers to increase the vegetable content.

• Spicy version: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in some chopped fresh chili.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using plant-based cream and skipping the Parmesan. There are great dairy-free cheese alternatives available.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

To avoid curdling, make sure to use heavy cream, which has a higher fat content. Stir constantly when adding the cream, and don’t let the sauce boil too rapidly after adding it.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This pasta is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and toss with the cooked pasta.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Fresh tomatoes work great in this recipe! They add a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish, especially when in-season.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, cook it for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can add a bit more flour to the roux to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I freeze this pasta?

This pasta doesn’t freeze very well, as the cream-based sauce can separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with vegetable or chicken broth.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil is ideal for this recipe, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Just use about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dried basil, depending on your taste preferences.

Can I add other herbs to this dish?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley would complement the flavor of the sauce beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that is perfect for any pasta lover. With its rich, creamy sauce and the freshness of tomatoes and basil, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this pasta is sure to become a favorite.