Classic Italian Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce
A comforting, herby pasta dish with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 40 minutes blends penne or spaghetti pasta, medium, diced tomatoes, small, diced onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz, penne or spaghetti pasta
- 4 medium, diced tomatoes
- 1 small, diced onion
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and 3 cloves minced garlic, sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Step 3: Add 4 medium diced tomatoes and 1 tsp salt. Cook for 8-10 minutes until tomatoes break down and sauce thickens.
- Step 4: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- Step 5: Toss 12 oz cooked pasta into the skillet, adding 1/2 cup pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Stir to coat.
- Step 6: Top with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Classic Italian Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 40 minutes (25 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Classic Italian Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Italian Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Classic Italian Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Classic Italian Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Very good for a 15-minute recipe. Would bump up the spice level though.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
- ★★★☆☆
Okay for a quick meal. I've had better general dishes though.
