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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly marries fresh ingredients with rich flavors. This comforting meal is suitable for any occasion, whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it accessible for both novice and experienced home cooks alike. With its enticing aroma and vibrant colors, this pasta dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta in 30 Minutes

Discover the delightful flavors of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe combines fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, rich heavy cream, and vibrant basil for an unforgettable meal. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned cook, the step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating a rich and creamy sauce that beautifully coats your favorite pasta. Enjoy this versatile and satisfying dish that you can customize to include proteins or extra veggies for a nutritious twist. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) of pasta (fettuccine or penne)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, releasing their juices.

      Incorporate Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the tomatoes. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but avoid browning it to prevent bitterness.

        Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the grated Parmesan cheese over a couple of minutes, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

          Season to Taste: Stir in the chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Mix thoroughly, taste, and adjust the seasoning as desired.

            Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until the desired creamy consistency is achieved.

              Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta while still hot, garnishing each serving with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful creamy tomato basil pasta!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings