Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta (Printable Version)

Rich tomato cream sauce, penne, and fresh basil create a comforting, velvety Italian vegetarian dish.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz penne or fettuccine

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
07 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
08 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 teaspoon sugar, optional
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Herbs & Garnish

12 - 3/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped plus extra for garnish
13 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Fill a large pot with water, season generously with salt, and bring to a robust boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
02 - In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
03 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
04 - Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until sauce reduces slightly and thickens.
05 - Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sugar if desired, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is creamy and heated through.
06 - Add cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Gradually add reserved pasta water for a smooth, silky sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece.
07 - Mix in chopped basil just before serving to preserve fresh flavor.
08 - Portion immediately onto plates, garnishing with additional basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Quick enough for weeknights with a total time of just 30 minutes
  • Uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients for an impressive result
  • Kid-friendly and adaptable for special diets with simple swaps
  • Leftovers are even better the next day
02 -
  • Naturally vegetarian and easy to adapt for gluten or dairy free diets
  • Packed with vitamin C and fiber thanks to tomatoes and basil
03 -
  • Always reserve your pasta water it is the secret to truly creamy sauce without thinning flavor
  • Grate your own Parmesan for richer taste and perfect melt
  • Do not overcook the garlic add it just before the tomatoes for complex aroma not bitterness

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