Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, especially during the summer when basil is fresh and fragrant. The combination of creamy sauce and ripe tomatoes creates a beautifully rich dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe brings together simple ingredients that come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors. The creamy texture of the sauce perfectly coats every strand of pasta, making it a comfort food favorite in our home. Trust me, you’ll want to whip this up regularly!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:27:37.132Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. The creaminess from the cheese, combined with the acidity of the tomatoes and the freshness of the basil, created a dish that was both sophisticated and comforting. As I stirred the sauce, I added a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, and it made a world of difference.

Over the years, I’ve refined the recipe to include sautéed garlic for an aromatic touch, and the dish has become a go-to for gatherings and family dinners. The secret to achieving the perfect creaminess lies in gently heating the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to each piece of pasta without curdling. This dish never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that hugs every strand of pasta
Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that's hard to resist
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Creating the Perfect Creamy Sauce

The key to achieving a luscious creamy sauce lies in the proper balance of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cream provides a smooth base while the cheese introduces a layer of depth and umami. When adding the cream, warm it gently and stir continuously to prevent curdling. Aim for a low simmer rather than a rolling boil to maintain its silky texture. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen it while also enriching the flavor with starch.

Incorporating the diced tomatoes is also crucial for flavor profile. Use quality canned tomatoes for the best results; San Marzano tomatoes are particularly flavorful. Their sweetness enhances the creaminess, creating a balanced taste. When you add the tomatoes, make sure to include all the juices from the can for a more saucy consistency. Allow the mixture to simmer until slightly thickened; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes, giving time for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Choosing Your Pasta Wisely

While fettuccine is the suggested pasta for this creamy dish, you can play around with various shapes like penne or rigatoni that are excellent for capturing the sauce. If you opt for whole wheat pasta, the slightly nuttier flavor complements the cream nicely, although it may require an extra minute in boiling time. Regardless of your choice, ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce and be combined on the plate.

To save time, you can cook the pasta concurrently with preparing the sauce. Start boiling the water as you sauté the garlic, and aim to time it so both are ready at the same moment. This ensures the warm pasta instantly absorbs the sauce, enhancing the dish's overall flavor and texture. And remember, never rinse the pasta after draining, as this washes away the starch that helps the sauce cling beautifully when mixed.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious meal:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your creamy and flavorful pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage Tips

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help restore its original consistency. Moving too quickly on high heat can cause the sauce to separate, resulting in an unappealing texture. Stir often to ensure even heating and prevent sticking to the pan.

If you're planning to make this dish in advance, you might consider preparing the sauce ahead of time and cooking the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve. This way, the sauce retains its creaminess and freshness. Additionally, you can freeze the sauce for up to a month. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this creamy pasta dish based on your dietary preferences or what's in season. Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can elevate the dish with added nutrition and flavor. Toss these in after the garlic is sautéed but before adding the tomatoes. They will soften but still retain some texture, enhancing each bite without overwhelming the creamy base.

For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If using cooked chicken or shrimp, simply mix them in at the end of cooking to warm through. This recipe is versatile—experimenting with different protein ingredients or veggies can keep your dinners interesting and fresh!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! All the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, just ensure the Parmesan cheese is rennet-free if vegan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. However, cream sauces may change texture when frozen.