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
Scale
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.
