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Creamy Garlic Basil Pasta in a white serving bowl

Creamy Garlic and Basil Pasta

A super easy kid-loving pasta dish with a touch of cream and lots of basil for a fresh flavour. 

Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword basil pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner recipe, easy pasta recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Author Samantha

Ingredients

  • 500 grams dried pasta (such as fusilli, penne, bowtie, etc.)
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 250 grams (1/2 lbs) thinly sliced prosciutto, sliced into 1/2" strips
  • 2 medium garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy (whipping) cream
  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook package until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Place pasta back into the pot once drained.

  2. Meanwhile, add olive oil to a non-stick pan and heat over medium-high heat. Add prosciutto slices and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy. Remove from pan and set aside on paper towel.

  3. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic to pan. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant and starting to brown. Add cream to pan and season with salt and pepper. (The cream should become hot, but not boiled at any point). Add reserved 1/2 cup of pasta water and parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese has melted.

  4. Add sauce to pasta pot and toss to fully coat pasta. Add basil and toss gently to mix in.

  5. Divide between bowls and top with further parmesan if desired.