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To create the perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, it's essential to understand the main components of the recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture, so let’s take a closer look.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Garlic Bread

Indulge in the comforting taste of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, a perfect blend of rich flavors and fresh ingredients. This dish combines velvety cream with tangy San Marzano tomatoes and aromatic basil for a gourmet experience that's surprisingly easy to make. Ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it's great served with crunchy garlic bread. Discover step-by-step instructions and tips to create a delicious meal your family will love!
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Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340g) pasta (choose between fettuccine or penne)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano for added sweetness

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (reserve a few sprigs for garnish)

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

For the Garlic Bread:

1 loaf of crusty French bread

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot, fill with water and generously season with salt. Bring to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

      Sauté Garlic:

        - In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.

          Make the Tomato Sauce:

            - Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat. Incorporate the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if you love a bit of spice), and season with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

              Combine Pasta and Sauce:

                - Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, gently tossing to ensure each piece is coated in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce feels overly thick, gradually introduce some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your preferred consistency.

                  Add Basil and Cheese:

                    - Stir in the freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and everything is harmoniously blended. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.

                      Prepare Garlic Bread:

                        - While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

                          - Slice the French bread lengthwise and spread the garlic butter mixture generously on both halves.

                            Bake the Garlic Bread:

                              - Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. For an extra crunchy texture, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes; keep a watchful eye to avoid burning.

                                Serve:

                                  - Dish out the creamy tomato basil pasta into bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a delightful meal.

                                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings