If you’re craving a cozy, comforting pasta dish packed with vibrant flavors, you absolutely must try this Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe. It effortlessly combines the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant freshness of basil, all enveloped in a dreamy, velvety sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers warmth and soulfulness in every bite, making it an instant favorite for anyone who loves Italian-inspired dishes with a creamy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich and flavorful dish. Each element plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and aroma that defines this pasta.
- 300 g penne pasta: Choose penne for its perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The base that adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant warmth that awakens the sauce.
- 400 g canned chopped tomatoes: These bring a rich tomato flavor and lovely texture without extra prep.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrated tomato essence that deepens the flavor and adds boldness.
- 150 ml heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1 tsp sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully for a rounder taste.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors naturally.
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you like a little heat in your pasta.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Introduces a classic herbaceous note that complements the tomatoes well.
- 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, torn: The star fresh herb that brightens and refreshes the entire dish.
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving: Melts into the sauce adding savory depth and salty richness.
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Start by boiling salted water and cooking the penne pasta until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. This texture works best to soak up the creamy tomato sauce without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain it but save a small cup of the starchy pasta water—this will rescue your sauce later if it gets too thick.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook it for 1 to 2 minutes until it smells heavenly, making sure not to burn it. This step is crucial because the garlic infuses the oil with its rich aroma, which is the flavor foundation of this sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Base
Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, along with the sugar, dried oregano, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Let this simmer gently for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and intensify in flavor, becoming the essence of your creamy tomato dream.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings
Turn the heat down to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. This transforms the tangy tomato base into a luscious, silky sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste—as the seasoning really brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything well to ensure every piece of pasta is generously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some of the reserved pasta water. This little trick amps up the creaminess and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Basil
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan and torn fresh basil leaves. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding an irresistible savory layer, while the basil brings that fresh, green burst of flavor that makes this dish so special. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation and extra flavor, top your creamy tomato and basil penne pasta with a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves. A tiny drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of cracked black pepper can also elevate the look and taste just before serving.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a light side salad, such as arugula tossed in lemon vinaigrette, or some garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of that heavenly sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also make a perfect accompaniment, balancing out the richness with their fresh, crisp texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests or simply make dinner feel special? Serve the pasta in individual rustic bowls with a small Parmesan crisp on top, or layer it in a glass baking dish and finish under the broiler until bubbling and golden. Adding a few charred cherry tomatoes on top adds color and an extra pop of sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy tomato and basil penne pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen overnight, making it deliciously convenient for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
Because of the cream in the sauce, freezing is possible but can slightly alter the texture, making it a bit grainy upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, cool the pasta completely, place it in freezer-safe containers, and consume within 1 month for best quality.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s smoothness. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps keep the sauce consistent and prevents separation.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, other shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would work wonderfully as well. Just be sure to cook them until al dente for the best texture.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cream?
Definitely. You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, cashew cream, or any unsweetened plant-based cream. This will give the sauce a slightly different flavor but keep it just as creamy and satisfying.
How spicy is the dish with chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the tomato and cream without overpowering the dish. If you prefer no heat, simply leave them out—this recipe is just as delicious without it.
Can I add protein to make this a more filling meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even pan-fried shrimp are fantastic additions. Just add them towards the end to keep their texture and flavor vibrant alongside the creamy sauce.
What’s the best way to prepare the fresh basil?
Tear the basil leaves by hand rather than chopping with a knife. This gentle treatment keeps the leaves fresh-looking and helps release their lovely aroma without bruising them.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe a try—it’s one of those comforting classics that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its rich, velvety sauce and bright basil notes, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own. Once you make it, I bet it’ll become your go-to recipe whenever you want a quick, delicious taste of Italy at home.
Print
Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta is a rich and comforting Italian dish that combines al dente penne pasta with a luscious tomato and cream sauce, flavored with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent weeknight meal, it balances savory, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 300 g penne pasta
Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400 g canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 150 ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Finishing Touches
- 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, torn
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Prepare Tomato Sauce: Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried oregano, and chili flakes if using. Simmer the mixture for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Cream and Season: Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Finish with Cheese and Basil: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the torn fresh basil leaves. Mix gently until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a few additional basil leaves for garnish.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter or vegan version.
- Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms to boost the protein content.
- This recipe works wonderfully with gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
