Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A 30-minute weeknight pasta in a velvety tomato-basil sauce that tastes like it simmered all day.
Instructions
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Cook penne in well-salted water until al dente; reserve a cup of pasta water.
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Warm olive oil and sizzle the garlic 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add tomatoes, sugar, salt and pepper; simmer 10 minutes.
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Stir in cream and most of the basil; simmer 2 minutes.
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Toss the pasta through, loosening with pasta water. Finish with parmesan and basil.
💡 Tips
A pinch of sugar tames the acidity of canned tomatoes. Reserve pasta water — the starch makes the sauce cling.
📝 Notes
For a vegan version, use plant cream and skip the parmesan (or use a vegan one).
Nutrition per serving
Frequently asked
Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken, white beans, or seared shrimp all work beautifully.
Reviews (1)
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Weeknight staple now. The pasta water tip is gold.
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