Before You Begin:
Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until tender but still slightly firm to the bite according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Cook the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Simmer Tomatoes
Add chopped tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add Cream
Reduce heat slightly and stir in cream. Simmer gently until the sauce becomes smooth and lightly thickened.
Combine
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
Finish
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in Parmesan if using. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Doneness & Texture Cues
Pasta should be tender but still slightly firm.
Sauce should look smooth and lightly thickened.
Finished dish should be hot throughout before serving.
