Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces); ¾ cup heavy cream; ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving); ½ cup fresh basil (roughly chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is absolutely one of my all-time favorite weeknight meals. It combines the richness of a velvety cream sauce with the bright, herbaceous pop of fresh basil and the comforting familiarity of tangy tomato sauce. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for dinners when you want something simple yet so satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish brings together a beautiful harmony of flavors and colors that’s sure to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large pot filled with cooked yellow penne pasta, with each piece smooth and slightly shiny, sits in the center on a white marbled surface. Around the pot are small white bowls holding light yellow butter, minced garlic in a pale orange tone, and small amounts of mixed dried herbs and black pepper, all neatly placed. A white and red striped towel is partially visible under the pot's handles. The scene is bright and clean, focusing on the simple ingredients before cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a sauce that’s rich, balanced, and bursting with flavor, while the pasta acts as the perfect canvas to soak it all up.

8 ounces uncooked penne pasta: A sturdy pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the garlic for that fragrant base.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Brings a subtle, aromatic zing that elevates the entire dish.
1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces): The heart of the sauce, offering that delightful tang and vibrant red color.
¾ cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes this recipe so indulgent.
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and depth in every bite.
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving): Sharp and nutty notes that enrich the sauce and enhance the flavor.
½ cup fresh basil (roughly chopped): Bright, fresh, and slightly sweet, basil gives an irresistible aroma and flavor boost.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors harmoniously.
½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a background kick of spice to round out the dish.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then cook your penne pasta until it’s al dente—that perfect texture where it’s tender but still has a slight bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy once tossed in the sauce and ensures it soaks up just the right amount of creaminess.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This step releases the garlic’s natural oils and fragrance, creating a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

Next, stir in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning, whisking until the mixture is smooth and perfectly blended. This combination transforms standard tomato sauce into a luscious, creamy delight that’s both tangy and rich.

Step 4: Simmer and Season

Let your sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows it to thicken slightly and develop a deeper flavor. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to bring all the nuanced tastes together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Basil

Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, giving the sauce a savory, nutty finish. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat every piece. Lastly, fold in the roughly chopped fresh basil for that lively herbaceous kick that makes this dish truly memorable.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your creamy pasta immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil. The warmth of the sauce combined with fresh ingredients makes every forkful pure joy.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

A round metal pan filled with cooked penne pasta coated in creamy orange sauce, topped with small pieces of green basil leaves and thin sprinkles of grated cheese. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with fresh green basil leaves on the right side. Around the pan, there are three small white bowls: one with grated cheese, one with chopped green herbs, and one with bread slices. On the left, a stack of white plates is paired with three silver forks, and in the bottom right, there is a black serving spoon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and some torn basil leaves offer the perfect finishing touch. They add both a burst of freshness and a lovely visual appeal, making your plate look as tempting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Consider serving this pasta alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread. The refreshing crunch or buttery bread helps balance the creamy richness, creating a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special presentation, twirl the pasta into neat nests on each plate, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil on top, and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens. It’s a stunning way to elevate this simple dish and impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it chills, so loosen it with a splash of cream or milk when reheating to bring back its luscious texture.

Freezing

This pasta does not freeze particularly well due to the cream, which can sometimes separate. If you wish to freeze it, keep the sauce and pasta separate and freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat gently with cream added fresh.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or a bit of pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency, ensuring every bite tastes just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, you can also use fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti based on your preference—just cook the pasta slightly al dente to maintain texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with a full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. The sauce will have a slightly different richness but still be delicious.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Using fresh tomatoes requires a bit more effort to cook down into a sauce, but it’s possible. You’ll want to seed and finely chop them, then simmer longer to achieve the same creamy consistency as with tomato sauce.

How important is the fresh basil in this recipe?

Fresh basil adds an irreplaceable burst of aroma and brightness that balances the creamy tomato sauce perfectly. While dried basil can be a substitute in a pinch, fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor experience.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for a quick and easy meal.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is like inviting comfort and vibrant flavor to your dinner table in one delightful dish. Its simplicity and incredible taste make it a perfect choice for busy nights or when you want something special without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to give it a go and make it your new go-to meal—it’s truly a pasta lover’s dream come true!