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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the cozy embrace of a well-prepared spaghetti meal. Creamy Tomato Basil Spaghetti stands out not just for its taste but for its ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This dish combines the rich, comforting texture of a creamy sauce with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Creamy Tomato Basil Spaghetti

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Tomato Basil Spaghetti, the perfect go-to dish for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe blends rich, creamy sauce with the freshness of tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a satisfying meal that appeals to all pasta lovers. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you'll experience the joy of cooking from scratch. Elevate your dining experience with this delightful recipe that’s sure to evoke warmth and nostalgia.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnishing)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions
 

Cook the Spaghetti:

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil, generously season it with salt. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

      Prepare the Sauce:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn for optimal flavor.

          Add the Tomatoes:

            Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, enabling the flavors to blend beautifully.

              Make it Creamy:

                Lower the heat slightly, and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until it is fully incorporated. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens to your liking.

                  Combine Pasta and Sauce:

                    Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet that contains the creamy tomato sauce. Toss the pasta gently to ensure it is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

                      Finish with Fresh Basil and Cheese:

                        Stir in the chopped fresh basil and the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything until well combined. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.

                          Serve:

                            Dish out the creamy tomato basil spaghetti and garnish with extra fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately for the best experience and enjoy your scrumptious meal!

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