Pasta

The Best Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta for Any Night

20 minutes Cook
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There’s something truly irresistible about the classic pairing of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil—especially when they’re brought together in a silky, cream-kissed sauce that wraps itself around every strand of pasta. This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta was born on a busy evening when I craved comfort without spending hours in the kitchen, and it quickly earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation.

What makes this dish special is its balance. The tomatoes bring brightness and depth, the basil adds a fragrant freshness, and the cream smooths everything into a velvety sauce that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when treated well, can create something truly satisfying.

Perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for guests, this pasta delivers cozy comfort with a fresh, restaurant-worthy finish. One bite in, and you’ll understand why it’s so easy to fall in love with this timeless combination.

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The Best Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta for Any Night

The Best Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta for Any Night

humaira
prep time
10 minutes
cooking time
20 minutes
servings
3–4
total time
30 minutes

Equipment

  • Large pot

  • Colander

  • Large skillet or sauté pan

  • Wooden spoon or spatula

  • Measuring cups

  • Measuring spoons

  • Chef’s knife

  • Cutting board

  • Tongs

  • Grater (optional, for cheese)

Ingredients

  • 300 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato passata or crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • ¼ cup pasta cooking water (as needed)

  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2

Make the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Add crushed tomatoes and oregano. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
3

Add Cream and Combine

Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Season with salt and black pepper. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
4

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
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