Are you a pasta lover looking for some inspiration to spice up your meals? Look no further! Basil is one of the most popular herbs used in cooking, and when paired with pasta, it creates a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious basil pasta recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
From classic pesto pasta to creamy alfredo pasta, and from simple spaghetti dishes to more complex linguine creations, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes will provide you with endless options to satisfy your taste buds. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of basil pasta!
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
This timeless Italian recipe combines the freshness of basil with the richness of garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful and aromatic pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until well combined.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and process until smooth.
5. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Basil Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this classic Italian dish, where tender fettuccine is smothered in a rich and creamy sauce infused with the bright flavor of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
5. Toss cooked fettuccine with creamy sauce and chopped basil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Spaghetti
Experience the simplicity of Italian cuisine with this classic recipe that combines fresh flavors of tomatoes, basil, and spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato-basil mixture in a large serving bowl.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Basil Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this light and zesty lemon basil linguine recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering. This dish combines the sweetness of lemons, the brightness of fresh basil, and the simplicity of linguine to create a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add chopped basil to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Toss cooked linguine pasta with the lemon-basil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Basil Shrimp Pasta
This quick and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a savory garlic and basil sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With only a few ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in chopped basil and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Penne
This recipe combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a creamy penne pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and cooked penne pasta.
5. Toss with Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pasta Primavera
A classic spring-inspired pasta dish, this Basil Pasta Primavera is a flavorful and vibrant meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Basil Chicken Pasta
This spicy basil chicken pasta recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and pungent basil to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add onion, garlic, cherry tomatoes, basil, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta, chicken, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Serve with Parmesan cheese on top (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and roasted vegetables to create a delicious and healthy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and chopped basil to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Basil Pasta Carbonara
This Basil Pasta Carbonara recipe adds a bright and refreshing twist to the traditional Italian dish, combining the richness of eggs, cream, and parmesan with the sweetness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add reserved pasta water and whisk until smooth.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with butter mixture until well coated.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Fold in chopped basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Pasta with Grilled Salmon
This recipe combines the brightness of fresh basil with the richness of grilled salmon, all on a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb salmon fillet
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chopped basil to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and grilled salmon in the skillet. Toss to combine with basil mixture.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Basil Cashew Pasta
A creamy and flavorful vegan pasta dish that combines the richness of cashews with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup soaked cashews
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine soaked cashews, water, olive oil, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add chopped basil to the blender and blend until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the cashew sauce and stir until coated.
5. Season with pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Pasta with Mushrooms and Cream
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of fresh basil, earthy mushrooms, and rich cream with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in a little olive oil until tender and fragrant.
3. Add chopped basil leaves and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-cream sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pasta with Burrata and Cherry Tomatoes
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the creamy richness of burrata cheese with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the brightness of fresh basil. It’s a light yet satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While pasta is cooking, cut the burrata ball into small pieces and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add chopped basil leaves to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Once pasta is cooked, drain and add to the skillet with the tomato-basil mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Stir in burrata cheese pieces until melted and combined with the pasta.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Pasta with Zucchini Ribbons
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings. The combination of basil-infused sauce, tender zucchini ribbons, and al dente pasta makes for a delightful meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler, create ribbons from the zucchinis. Set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Combine cooked pasta, zucchini ribbons, and basil sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pasta with Pesto and Pine Nuts
This recipe combines the bright flavors of fresh basil, rich pesto sauce, and crunchy pine nuts to create a delightful pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves and pesto sauce. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. In a large skillet, toast pine nuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with toasted pine nuts. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
5. Stir in basil-pesto sauce until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pasta with Spinach and Feta
This recipe combines the bright flavors of basil, spinach, and feta to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped basil and spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the basil mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta, basil mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Pasta with Artichokes and Olives
This recipe combines the brightness of fresh basil with the earthy sweetness of artichokes and the brininess of olives, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 large artichoke heart, canned or fresh
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add artichoke heart, olives, and basil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
A classic Italian dish elevated with the deep flavor of roasted garlic and the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 3-4 cloves garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic-Parmesan sauce.
6. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Basil Pasta with Sausage and Peppers
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the bold flavors of Italian sausage, bell peppers, and fresh basil. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or bowtie)
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add bell peppers and garlic to the skillet; cook until peppers are tender.
4. Stir in chopped basil and cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 mouth-watering basil pasta recipes! From classic pesto pasta to creamy Alfredo, spicy chicken, and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to combine the bright, zesty flavor of basil with the comfort of pasta, whether it’s paired with roasted vegetables, grilled salmon, or sun-dried tomatoes. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure and try one (or two, or three…) of these easy-to-make recipes today!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
