Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

4 servings
This creamy tomato basil pasta recipe is a delicious meatless meal that's fast, simple to make, and is perfect for in-season summer tomatoes and fresh basil!

Ingredients

  • uncooked pasta
    8 oz
  • butter
    2 tbsp
  • flour
    ½ tbsp
  • garlic

    minced

    3 cloves
  • dry white wine or chicken/veg broth
    ¼ c
  • heavy/whipping cream
    1 c
  • dijon mustard

    optional

    ½ tsp
  • italian seasoning
    ¼ tsp
  • tomatoes

    chopped

    2 medium
  • freshly grated parmesan cheese
    ½ c
  • basil

    tear it up

    ½ c
  • salt & pepper
    to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    Boil a salted pot of water for the pasta and cook it al dente according to package directions.

  2. 2

    When the pasta is about 10 minutes away from being done, add the butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it melts, make a quick roux by sprinkling the flour in and cook for about 1 minute, stirring fairly often.

  3. 3

    Add in the garlic, followed by the wine (or broth). Let it bubble until it's reduced by half (approx. 30 seconds to 1 minute).

  4. 4

    Whisk in the cream, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning until you've got a smooth sauce.

  5. 5

    Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Cook the sauce for another 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened up a bit.

  6. 6

    Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese and basil.

  7. 7

    Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until coated (I usually add a tablespoon or so of the pasta water to the sauce prior to draining it, especially if it's become a tad too thick). Serve immediately with more freshly grated parmesan if desired.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

30 min4 servings551 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a comforting, yet effortlessly elegant meal that comes together in a flash? This creamy tomato basil pasta recipe is your answer, delivering rich flavors perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines by embracing the vibrant simplicity of fresh ingredients. The combination of sweet, chopped tomatoes and fragrant basil melds beautifully into a velvety sauce, creating a sophisticated dish without any fuss. It's a delightful way to highlight the best of summer's bounty, transforming humble ingredients into something truly special.

What to Expect

Prepare for a truly satisfying experience with this delightful pasta dish. You'll find tender pasta coated in a luxurious, creamy tomato basil sauce that's both savory and bright. The richness from the heavy cream is beautifully balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes and the fresh, herbaceous notes of basil. Each bite offers a comforting warmth, making it an incredibly inviting meal. It's designed to be approachable, ensuring a delicious result whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen.

Customization & Variations

This creamy tomato basil pasta is wonderfully versatile. If you prefer not to use dry white wine, an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth makes an excellent substitute in the sauce. Feel free to increase the amount of fresh basil for an even more pronounced herby flavor, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For an extra layer of richness, you can stir in more freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end.

Serving & Context

Serve this beautiful main course as a light yet fulfilling dinner. It's especially wonderful during the summer months when tomatoes and basil are at their peak. A simple side salad or crusty bread would be the perfect accompaniment.

Frequently Asked Questions