Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella with succulent chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta.
This popular pasta dish can be enjoyed at the famous Cheesecake Factory restaurant, but did you know that you can also recreate it at home?
In this article, we will explore what makes Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta so delicious and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make it yourself.
What is Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta?
The Cheesecake Factory is a restaurant chain and cheesecake wholesaler located in the US. Their menu have many items to eat but the Tomato Basil Pasta is my most favorite.
It is a combination of tender chicken breast, penne pasta, diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, basil, and mozzarella pearls.
The chicken is cooked to perfection, adding a savory element to the dish, while the tomatoes and basil provide a burst of freshness.
The mozzarella pearls add a creamy and cheesy touch, making this pasta dish incredibly indulgent and satisfying.
How to make Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta?
To make Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
The Ingredients
- Succulent Chicken Breast: The succulent chicken breast adds a protein-rich element, contributing a juicy and savory taste to the Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta. It complements the pasta and enhances the overall heartiness of the dish.
- Al Dente Penne Pasta: The al dente penne pasta provides the perfect texture, allowing each bite to be satisfyingly chewy. Its shape holds onto the flavors of the sauce, ensuring a delightful pasta-eating experience.
- Vine-Ripened Canned Diced Tomatoes: Using vine-ripened canned diced tomatoes ensures a burst of freshness and sweet acidity. These tomatoes add depth and a vibrant tomato flavor, creating a well-balanced and lively sauce for the pasta.
- Freshly Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant and aromatic essence. It adds a layer of savory complexity, enhancing the overall taste of the Tomato Basil Pasta with its rich and pungent flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil serves as the base for the sauce, providing a luscious and silky texture. It not only contributes to the dish’s mouthfeel but also imparts a fruity and robust flavor, tying together the various ingredients.
- Fragrant Basil Leaves: The fragrant basil leaves add a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness to the pasta. Basil’s aromatic and herbaceous notes complement the tomatoes, creating a harmonious and flavorful profile.
- Creamy Mozzarella Pearls: Creamy mozzarella pearls contribute a luxurious and indulgent element to the dish. They melt slightly into the warm pasta, creating a creamy texture and adding a mild, cheesy richness to each bite.
- Gourmet Salt and Pepper: Gourmet salt and pepper are essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors of the Tomato Basil Pasta. They enhance the natural taste of the ingredients, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying culinary experience.
Step by step directions:
Step 1:
Start by cooking the chicken breast. Season it with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast and cook until it is no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 2:
In the meantime, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until it becomes fragrant.
Step 4:
Add the diced tomatoes with their juices to the skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes start to break down.
Step 5:
Stir in the sliced chicken breast and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it is heated through.
Step 6:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss it in the tomato and chicken mixture until everything is well combined.
Step 7:
Tear the basil leaves into small pieces and add them to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 8:
Finally, add the mozzarella pearls and gently toss them with the pasta until they start to melt slightly.
Notes
– To make this dish even more delicious, you can sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
– If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato and chicken mixture.
– This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the flavors are at their peak.
– If you are vegetarian, you can omit the chicken and add some sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a meat-free alternative.
Storage Tips
To store leftover Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a few tablespoons of marinara sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition information for Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
However, as a general guideline, a serving of this pasta dish (approximately 1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 385 calories, 15-20g of fat, 40-50g of carbohydrates, and 25-30g of protein.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta with a side of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Simply slice a baguette into thick slices, brush them with olive oil, sprinkle some garlic powder and dried oregano on top, and bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Pair this pasta dish with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The fresh and crisp salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
- For a heartier meal, serve Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta with a side of grilled vegetables. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant) with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill them until tender and slightly charred.
- To make the pasta even more filling, you can add some cooked shrimp or sautéed Italian sausages to the tomato and chicken mixture. This will add a seafood or meaty twist to the dish.
- For a romantic dinner, serve Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Sangiovese. The fruity and robust flavors of the wine will complement the rich flavors of the pasta perfectly.
What other substitute can I use in Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta?
- Instead of chicken breast, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
- If you don’t have penne pasta, you can substitute it with any other short pasta shape, such as fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni.
- If you don’t have vine-ripened canned diced tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply dice them and remove the seeds before adding them to the skillet.
- Instead of mozzarella pearls, you can use shredded mozzarella cheese or even small pieces of fresh mozzarella.
- If you don’t have basil leaves, you can use dried basil or substitute it with other fresh herbs, such as parsley or oregano. Just keep in mind that the flavors might be slightly different.
Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta
Equipment
- Pan
- Cooking Utensils (spoons, spatula)
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Pot for Pasta
- Colander or strainer
- Serving Dish
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon Gourmet salt and pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 8 oz Succulent chicken breast
- 1/2 tablespoon Freshly minced garlic
- 8 oz Al dente penne pasta
- 7 1/4 oz Vine-ripened canned diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Creamy mozzarella pearls
- 1/2 cup Fragrant basil leaves
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
- Season chicken breast with salt and pepper. Cook until succulent and fully cooked. Set aside to cool, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the al dente penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Create the Tomato Sauce:
- In a pan, heat extra virgin olive oil. Add freshly minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add vine-ripened canned diced tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
Combine Chicken and Pasta:
- Add the sliced chicken pieces to the tomato sauce. Mix well. Then, fold in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
Add Basil and Mozzarella:
- Stir in fragrant basil leaves for a burst of freshness. Gently fold in creamy mozzarella pearls, allowing them to melt slightly and contribute a rich, cheesy texture.
Season to Perfection:
- Sprinkle the gourmet salt and pepper over the pasta. Adjust the seasoning according to taste, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.
Serve Warm:
- Transfer the Tomato Basil Pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with extra basil leaves and mozzarella pearls if desired. Serve immediately, savoring the delightful combination of succulent chicken, al dente pasta, and the rich tomato-basil sauce.
Notes
- – To make this dish even more delicious, you can sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- – If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato and chicken mixture.
- – This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the flavors are at their peak.
- – If you are vegetarian, you can omit the chicken and add some sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a meat-free alternative.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I make Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta in advance?
A1. While the flavors of this dish are best when enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some of the components in advance. You can cook and slice the chicken breast, cook the penne pasta, and prepare the tomato and chicken mixture ahead of time. Simply store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine them when you are ready to serve.
Keep in mind that the pasta might dry out slightly when reheated, so you might need to add a little more olive oil or marinara sauce to moisten it.
Q2. Can I freeze Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta?
A2. Tomato-based pasta dishes like Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might change slightly after freezing and reheating.
To freeze the pasta, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a skillet or in the microwave.
Q3. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
A3. While fresh basil has a vibrant and aromatic flavor, dried basil can also be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so you will need to reduce the amount used.
As a general rule of thumb, you can use 1/3 to 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil called for in the recipe.
Q4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A4. Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding some sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers instead.
The mushrooms will provide a meaty texture and an earthy flavor, while the roasted bell peppers will add a sweet and smoky element to the dish.
Q5. Can I use other types of cheese in place of mozzarella pearls?
A5. Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of cheese to add your own twist to this pasta dish.
Some possible alternatives to mozzarella pearls include shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, or grated Parmesan. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is a delectable dish that can be enjoyed both at the restaurant and in the comfort of your own home.
By following the step-by-step directions and using the suggested ingredients, you can recreate this flavorful and indulgent pasta dish.
Whether you serve it with garlic bread, a side salad, or grilled vegetables, Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta is sure to impress your family and friends.
So why not try making it yourself and savor the delightful combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella?
