This Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe is absolutely everything you crave in a comforting bowl of pasta: rich, velvety tomato sauce, the subtle freshness of basil, and a hearty, satisfying bite from perfectly cooked penne. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, this dish brings a vibrant burst of Italian flavors with minimal fuss. Prepare to fall in love, one forkful at a time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe is found in its simplicity. Every ingredient is carefully selected, playing an important role in developing the luscious texture, savory aroma, and balance of flavors that make this recipe a family favorite. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips for the best results:
- Penne Pasta: Its tubular shape perfectly traps every bit of the creamy sauce for an irresistible bite.
- Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic for depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the entire sauce with bold, aromatic notes.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Provides the rich, tangy tomato base essential for a classic Italian taste.
- Heavy Cream: Swirls into the tomatoes for a velvety, luxurious texture you’ll savor.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Brings a gentle heat that wakes up all the other flavors—adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing every ingredient and drawing out the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce and tops your bowl with nutty, salty goodness.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Chopped basil adds that fresh, herby aroma and a pop of green color.
- Extra Parmesan and Basil (for garnish): Take your presentation up a notch with these finishing touches.
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the penne pasta. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking, and cook until just al dente to ensure the perfect tender-yet-firm bite. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you want a thinner sauce later. Set the pasta aside for now, but get ready for the magic to begin!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While your pasta drains, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly for about one minute. You want the garlic just fragrant, not browned, so it lends its bold flavor straight into the base of your sauce. This is the aromatic moment that sets the foundation for your Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet, along with the salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little extra kick. Let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for 8 to 10 minutes. This step deepens the tomato flavor, letting some of the liquid evaporate for a thicker, more concentrated sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cream
Reduce your heat to low, and gently stir in the heavy cream. Watch how the tomatoes transform into a creamy, decadent sauce right before your eyes! Let everything gently simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes until fully combined and heated through—don’t rush this part, as it’s where the richness really develops.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Toss the drained penne pasta directly into your sauce, making sure each piece is coated in all that creamy, tomato-basil luxury. Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, stirring until well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it up with a splash of reserved pasta water. Now, your Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe is ready for the final garnish!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Top each plate with a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkling of bright green basil leaves. These final touches add not only flavor but also an irresistible, restaurant-worthy finish to your Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe.
Side Dishes
This pasta is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple mixed greens salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Add a slice of crusty garlic bread or toasted ciabatta for the perfect way to mop up every last bit of that creamy tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this dish family-style in a large bowl at the center of the table, or plate it individually for a stunning main course. For a special occasion, try layering the pasta with extra sauce, Parmesan, and basil on each plate, and finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for up to three days, and the flavors often deepen as they meld together overnight.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze leftovers, portion the completely cooled pasta into airtight, freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. The creamy sauce will retain its texture well for up to two months—just make sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place your pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture, and stir gently until heated through. Microwave reheating is also possible, but do it in short intervals, stirring often, for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce in every bite, feel free to swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. The sauce is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with almost any pasta shape you have on hand.
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version of the Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe, simply substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or use a plant-based cream alternative. You’ll still enjoy plenty of creaminess with fewer calories.
What protein can I add without losing the flavor?
Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp both make delicious add-ins to this pasta. They pick up the sauce nicely and keep the dish balanced. Try tossing either in just before serving for an extra boost of protein!
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes! You can swap the heavy cream with your favorite non-dairy cream and use a vegan Parmesan alternative. The creamy texture and fresh basil flavor will still shine through.
Will dried basil work if I don’t have fresh?
If fresh basil isn’t available, substitute with 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried basil. Add it during the simmering stage so it infuses the sauce—just keep in mind, fresh basil brings a brighter herbal note and a pop of green color.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta, this Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe always delivers. It comes together quickly, tastes absolutely divine, and is bound to become a staple in your dinner routine. I hope you’ll grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’re going to love it!
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Creamy Tomato and Basil Penne Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful creamy tomato and basil penne pasta that’s rich in flavor and simple to prepare. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- extra Parmesan and basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Boil the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer, then stir in heavy cream and simmer until creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, then mix in Parmesan cheese and basil. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Enhance with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free penne for dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
