If you’re craving a cozy, indulgent meal that wraps you in comfort and flavor, this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is the perfect answer. Imagine tender pasta strands drenched in a luscious, velvety tomato sauce, brightened by the fresh zing of basil and enriched with just the right touch of cream. It’s a dish that feels both elegant and homemade, a true crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about after the very first bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings joy to the dinner table with every savory mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that together create a symphony of taste, texture, and color. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the fresh basil that lends an aromatic brightness or the cream that smooths out the tangy tomato base, making this dish truly unforgettable.
- Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil to give your sauce a silky feel and rich flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is a must to give the sauce its inviting aroma and depth.
- Canned crushed tomatoes: Provides the hearty tomato base for the sauce; whole peeled can be a good alternative if crushed are not available.
- Fresh basil leaves: Adds a sweet, fragrant herbaceous note that’s signature to this recipe.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that smooth, luscious texture that makes the sauce so irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated freshly to sprinkle over the pasta for an umami boost and cheesy finish.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and balance the flavors perfectly.
- Pasta of choice: Fettuccine, penne, or your favorite kind; it should hold the sauce well and complement its creaminess.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Start by gently heating olive oil in a large pan, then toss in finely chopped garlic to release that unmistakable savory aroma. This step is the foundation of your sauce, setting a warm and inviting base that hints at the delicious flavors to come.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let the sauce simmer gently over medium-low heat, letting the tomatoes break down fully and deepen in flavor. This slow simmer creates a rich, tangy backbone for your dish that pairs beautifully with fresh basil.
Step 3: Add Fresh Basil and Cream
Once the tomato sauce has thickened slightly, stir in torn basil leaves to infuse their fragrant, sweet essence. Then, gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce turns luxuriously smooth and light pink in color. This transformation is what makes the dish so decadently creamy without feeling heavy.
Step 4: Season and Toss with Pasta
Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Meanwhile, cook your pasta until just al dente, then drain and toss it directly into the sauce. The pasta will soak up all that creamy tomato goodness in every twist and turn, making every bite delightfully flavorful.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan
Serve the pasta topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess and bright basil notes perfectly, elevating the dish to absolute comfort-food greatness.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh basil leaves or a few extra swirls of cream not only make the dish look more inviting but bring fresh pops of flavor that balance the rich sauce. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a dusting of Parmesan can also add layers of texture and taste.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is a fantastic addition to sop up every last bit of the creamy sauce, making sure nothing goes to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish dinner party, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, each garnished with a small basil sprig and a Parmesan crisp. This not only looks stunning but gives everyone their perfect plate, ready to delight their taste buds. You could also try layering the pasta with sauce and fresh basil in a clear dish for a beautiful, rustic presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy tomato basil pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so a splash of milk or cream before reheating can help revive its original irresistibility.
Freezing
While pasta can be frozen, the cream-based sauce tends to separate when frozen and reheated, so it’s best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately or enjoy this dish fresh for maximum creamy perfection. If you do freeze it, thaw slowly in the fridge and stir well when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a small amount of cream, milk, or even pasta water will help restore the sauce’s silky texture, ensuring your leftovers are just as delicious as when first made.
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh in this recipe?
While dried basil can work in a pinch, fresh basil is key to capturing the bright, vibrant flavor that defines this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe. If you must use dried, add it early in the cooking process and use about one-third the amount of fresh basil called for.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy finish. The fresh basil and tomato base remain perfect in vegan variations.
What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Pasta shapes that hold onto sauce well, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine, are ideal. These shapes catch the creamy tomato sauce in every nook and cranny, delivering bursts of flavor with every bite.
How long can I keep the sauce if I make it ahead?
The sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently with a splash of cream or milk to bring back that signature creamy texture before tossing with pasta.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu make great additions to boost protein and make this meal more filling without taking away from the creamy tomato basil magic.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and purely delicious about this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe that makes it a true kitchen winner. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it delivers flavor, warmth, and satisfaction in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your go-to dishes—it’s guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your rotation just like it is in mine!
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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Braised Short Ribs recipe features tender, flavorful beef slow-cooked in a rich red wine and herb-infused broth. Perfectly seared short ribs are braised with aromatic vegetables and herbs, creating a comforting and elegant dish ideal for special occasions or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in beef short ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 cups red wine
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for slow braising the short ribs.
- Season the ribs: Generously season the short ribs on all sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the ribs: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides for 8-10 minutes and then remove them from the pot, setting aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and smashed garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start softening and the onions become translucent.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to combine it well with the vegetables.
- Deglaze with red wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping the pot’s bottom to loosen browned bits. Bring to a simmer and reduce slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Add broth and herbs: Stir in the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, then return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are mostly covered by the liquid.
- Braise in oven: Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then cover with a lid and transfer the pot to the preheated oven. Braise for 2½ to 3 hours until the meat is very tender and falls off the bone.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): Remove the ribs and place the pot on medium heat. Mix flour with water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened to your liking.
- Serve and garnish: Spoon the sauce over the short ribs and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution during braising.
- For the best flavor, choose a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
- Allow ribs to cool slightly before serving for easier handling and better flavor development.
- The flour slurry in step 9 is optional; omit for a thinner sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully.
