Creamy Tomato Penne

Creamy Tomato Penne is a comforting Italian-style pasta dish featuring tender penne tossed in a rich, silky tomato cream sauce. The sauce is smooth and flavorful, blending sweet tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and cream for a satisfying meal that feels both elegant and cozy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe creates a restaurant-quality pasta using simple pantry ingredients. The creamy tomato sauce clings perfectly to the penne, delivering a balanced flavor that’s rich without being heavy. It’s easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The ingredients are straightforward, yet the final result tastes indulgent and impressive.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces (340 g) penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (28 ounces / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Stir in the chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until smooth and creamy.
6. Add the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
7. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

For added protein, mix in grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp before serving.

For extra vegetables, stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted zucchini during the final minutes of cooking.

To make it spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free penne as a substitute for traditional pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat on the stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through.

To microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

Freezing is possible, but the creamy sauce may slightly change texture once thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh and combine before serving for best results.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Canned crushed tomatoes provide a smooth texture, but you can also use canned whole tomatoes and blend them before adding.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. Rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work very well because they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Allow it to simmer longer to reduce. Adding a little extra Parmesan cheese can also help thicken the sauce.

How can I make it less spicy?

Simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes or reduce the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You may substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cooking cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Why is my sauce too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or cream and stir gently until the desired consistency is reached.

What can I serve with this pasta?

It pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

How do I keep the pasta from overcooking?

Cook the penne just until al dente and avoid overcooking during reheating.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Simply double all ingredients and use a large pot and skillet to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Penne is a timeless pasta dish that combines simple ingredients with rich, satisfying flavor. The velvety tomato cream sauce coats every bite of penne, creating a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether served for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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