Description
This creamy tomato basil pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions when you need something delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (shells or preferred shape)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 tablespoon flour
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in broth, simmer for 3–4 minutes, and reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Remove from heat, add parmesan cheese and basil, stirring until combined.
- Toss cooked pasta with sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired