Fresh, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes, this Tomato Basil Pasta is a weeknight dream come true. Featuring sweet tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, this simple dish transforms pantry staples into a comforting and crave-worthy meal. It’s one of those easy recipes you’ll want to make again and again—perfect for busy nights, casual dinners, or a quick lunch that still feels special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Done in just 17 minutes start to finish.
Simple Ingredients – Most of these items are already in your kitchen.
Fresh Flavors – Basil, garlic, and tomato make a timeless trio.
Family Friendly – Mild, classic flavors everyone loves.
Customizable – Use fresh or canned tomatoes, any pasta you like.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained (or sub 3 cups fresh cherry tomatoes)
1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
½–1 cup reserved pasta water
16 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta
Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to the package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Base
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add onions and garlic with a big pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Tomatoes & Vinegar
Stir in the diced tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Simmer until slightly reduced, about 5–8 minutes. This builds depth and sweetens the sauce.
Toss Everything Together
Add ½ cup reserved pasta water to the sauce. Stir in cooked pasta, chopped basil, and Parmesan. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and the sauce is silky.
Taste & Serve
Season with more salt or basil if desired. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Tips for Best Flavor
Use high-quality canned or ripe fresh tomatoes.
Don’t skip the balsamic—it adds depth and sweetness.
Save your pasta water—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Use fresh basil for the best aroma and taste.
Finish with flaky salt or crushed red pepper if you like a kick.
Variations to Try
Add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta for extra protein.
Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer texture.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Swap basil with parsley or arugula for a different herb twist.
What to Serve With Tomato Basil Pasta
Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
Simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted veggies or grilled zucchini
A glass of dry red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil.
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until hot.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~380
Protein: 11g
Carbs: 58g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 480mg
Final Thoughts
Tomato Basil Pasta is a perfect example of how a few fresh ingredients can turn into something amazing. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests—this is the kind of no-fuss pasta recipe that delivers every time.
Print
Tomato Basil Pasta
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fresh, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes, this Tomato Basil Pasta brings together sweet tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a comforting and crave-worthy meal made from simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained (or 3 cups fresh cherry tomatoes)
- 1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ½–1 cup reserved pasta water
- 16 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic with salt and pepper. Cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for 5–8 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add ½ cup reserved pasta water to the sauce.
- Stir in cooked pasta, chopped basil, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until noodles are well coated and sauce is silky.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
Use high-quality tomatoes and don’t skip the balsamic for depth. Add shrimp or grilled chicken for protein, or a splash of cream for richness. Great with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: tomato basil pasta, quick pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, weeknight dinner