Delicious Tomato Basil Pasta Inspired by Cheesecake Factory’s Recipe

Introduction

If you’ve ever dined at the Cheesecake Factory, you’ve likely indulged in their tantalizing tomato basil pasta. With a delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that leaves a lasting impression. Now, you can recreate the magic at home with this inspired recipe that mirrors the Cheesecake Factory’s renowned dish.

Ingredients

For this delectable tomato basil pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
• 1 can (28 ounces) of whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
• 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Additional basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your own mouthwatering tomato basil pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Crush the whole peeled tomatoes with your hands as you add them to the skillet, then stir to combine. Continue to cook, breaking up the tomatoes with a wooden spoon, for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped basil and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to incorporate it into the sauce. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
7. Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with additional basil leaves.
8. Enjoy your homemade tomato basil pasta inspired by the Cheesecake Factory!

FAQ

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

A: While fresh basil provides the best flavor for this dish, you can substitute dried basil if needed. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh basil called for in the recipe.

Q: What can I serve with tomato basil pasta?

A: This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a simple bruschetta for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

A: To make the tomato basil pasta vegetarian, ensure that the parmesan cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly (made without animal rennet). You can also explore plant-based heavy cream alternatives available in many grocery stores.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the tomato basil sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.

Q: Can I add protein to the dish?

A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage are excellent additions to this pasta dish for a boost of protein.