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
Scale
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
