Cheesecake Factory has always been synonymous with delectable dishes and generous portions, and their Tomato Basil Pasta is no exception. A delightful combination of tender penne pasta, succulent chicken, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant basil – this dish is a celebration of simple yet exquisite flavors that come together beautifully on a plate.
What is Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta?
Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is a signature dish that has won the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. The dish features perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a luscious tomato sauce infused with fresh basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, and tender chicken.
The addition of creamy mounceszarella pearls and savory parmesan cheese elevates the dish to a whole new level of culinary excellence.
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Flavorful Ingredients: The carefully selected ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and basil pesto contribute to the rich and vibrant flavor profile of this dish.
2. Perfectly Cooked Pasta: The al dente penne pasta provides the ideal base for the robust tomato sauce, ensuring a satisfying texture in every bite.
3. Balanced Seasoning: The right balance of salt, pepper, and a hint of sugar in the tomato sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and elevates the overall taste of the dish.
4. Creamy Cheese Elements: The addition of fresh mounceszarella pearls and grated parmesan cheese adds a creamy and indulgent twist to the pasta, creating a harmonious medley of flavors.
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Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Penne pasta (uncooked): Penne pasta serves as the base of the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying texture that holds up well with the robust tomato and basil flavors.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts add protein to the dish, making it more filling and substantial. They also absorb the flavors of the other ingredients and contribute to the overall savory profile of the pasta.
- Salt: Salt is used to season the chicken breasts, enhancing their natural flavor and ensuring they are properly seasoned throughout.
- Black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the chicken breasts, complementing the other spices and ingredients in the dish.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is used to cook the chicken breasts and sauté the garlic, adding richness and a hint of Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
- Garlic cloves: Garlic cloves provide aromatic flavor and depth to the dish. They are sautéed in olive oil to release their fragrance and infuse the entire dish with their savory essence.
- Cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and vibrant color to the pasta dish. They burst with juiciness when cooked, creating a flavorful tomato sauce base.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes contribute to the richness and depth of the tomato sauce. They provide a concentrated tomato flavor and help thicken the sauce.
- Tomato sauce: Tomato sauce forms the base of the pasta dish, providing a smooth and savory backdrop for the other ingredients. It adds richness and body to the sauce, tying everything together.
- Sugar: Sugar is added to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and create a harmonious flavor profile in the sauce. It helps to mellow out any tartness and adds a touch of sweetness to the dish.
- Fresh mounceszarella pearls: Fresh mounceszarella pearls add creamy texture and a mild, milky flavor to the pasta dish. They melt slightly when mixed with the hot pasta, creating a luscious and indulgent sauce.
- Fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves impart a bright and aromatic flavor to the dish. They are torn and added to the pasta just before serving, adding a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil pesto: Basil pesto enhances the basil flavor in the dish and adds richness and depth to the sauce. It contributes herbal notes and a subtle garlicky flavor, elevating the overall taste profile.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor to the pasta dish. It melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and indulgent texture, and adds a final touch of umami richness.
Step by Step Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente.
- Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can choose between two methods:
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F and air fry the chicken breasts for about 10-14 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Skillet: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin, bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Basil Sauce
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, sautéing them for about 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Next, lower the heat to medium and stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a hint of sugar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the cooked penne pasta to the pot it was boiled in. Pour the prepared tomato basil sauce over the pasta and add the chopped fresh basil leaves. Give everything a good stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Add the Mounceszarella Pearls
Just before serving, toss the fresh mounceszarella pearls into the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently fold them in, allowing the warmth of the pasta to soften the cheese slightly and create creamy pockets of deliciousness throughout.
Step 6: Assemble and Garnish
- Divide the saucy pasta evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken breast pieces on top of each bowl.
- Drizzle a spoonful of basil pesto over the chicken and pasta for an extra burst of flavor. For the finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese over each bowl.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Your homemade Cheesecake Factory-inspired Tomato Basil Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it piping hot and savor the wonderful combination of tender pasta, savory chicken, and flavorful tomato basil sauce. Each bite is sure to transport you to pasta paradise! Buon appetito!
Tips:
– To enhance the flavor, use high-quality cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
– For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
– Adjust the seasoning according to your preference by tasting the sauce before tossing with the pasta.
– Save time by using store-bought tomato sauce, but opt for a brand with natural ingredients for better taste.
– For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 540
– Protein: 32g
– Carbohydrates: 52g
– Fat: 23g
– Saturated Fat: 7g
– Cholesterol: 70mg
– Sodium: 780mg
– Fiber: 5g
– Sugar: 9g
How to Store The Leftovers?
To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain the pasta’s texture.
What are some recommended side dishes for Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta?
1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the flavors of the pasta with its buttery and garlicky goodness.
2. Caprese Salad: A light and refreshing salad of fresh tomatoes, mounceszarella, and basil that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
3. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant adds a nutritious and colorful touch to the meal.
4. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the rich pasta dish.
If the items are not available in your pantry, what are some substitute options for the ingredients?
1. Pasta Substitute: You can replace penne pasta with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta shape of your choice.
2. Chicken Substitute: Tofu, shrimp, or grilled vegetables can be used as alternatives to chicken for a vegetarian or seafood twist.
3. Mounceszarella Substitute: Burrata or ricotta cheese can be used instead of mounceszarella for a creamy texture.
4. Basil Substitute: Spinach or arugula leaves can be substituted for basil to add a fresh herbaceous element to the dish.
Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- large pot
- skillet
- Air fryer or skillet (for cooking chicken)
- Meat thermometer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander or strainer
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 1/4 Teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon basil pesto
- 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 Teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 4 ounces mozzarella pearls
- 7 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 1/2 Teaspoon brown sugar
- 16 ounce penne pasta uncooked
- 10 chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente.
- Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later.
- Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can choose between two methods:
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F and air fry the chicken breasts for about 10-14 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Skillet: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin, bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, sautéing them for about 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Next, lower the heat to medium and stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a hint of sugar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Return the cooked penne pasta to the pot it was boiled in. Pour the prepared tomato basil sauce over the pasta and add the chopped fresh basil leaves. Give everything a good stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Just before serving, toss the fresh mounceszarella pearls into the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently fold them in, allowing the warmth of the pasta to soften the cheese slightly and create creamy pockets of deliciousness throughout.
- Divide the saucy pasta evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken breast pieces on top of each bowl.
- Drizzle a spoonful of basil pesto over the chicken and pasta for an extra burst of flavor. For the finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese over each bowl.
- Your homemade Cheesecake Factory-inspired Tomato Basil Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it piping hot and savor the wonderful combination of tender pasta, savory chicken, and flavorful tomato basil sauce. Each bite is sure to transport you to pasta paradise! Buon appetito!
Notes
- To enhance the flavor, use high-quality cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference by tasting the sauce before tossing with the pasta.
- Save time by using store-bought tomato sauce, but opt for a brand with natural ingredients for better taste.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and toss them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Q2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or substituting with zoodles (zucchini noodles).
Q3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
It is not recommended to freeze the leftovers as the texture of the pasta and cheese may change upon thawing.
Q4. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Q5. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
While fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch, adjusting the quantity as dried herbs are more potent.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that combines simplicity with sophistication to deliver a truly unforgettable dining experience.
From the vibrant colors to the aromatic flavors, every element of this dish is carefully crafted to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply a food enthusiast looking to indulge in a hearty and flavorful meal, this pasta dish is sure to delight your senses and earn a special place on your recipe repertoire.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps diligently, and treat yourself to a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the delectable world of Cheesecake Factory’s renowned dishes.
