This creamy tomato basil penne is a comforting and easy pasta dinner recipe, perfect for weeknights or when you need a quick, satisfying meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Penne Pasta: Any short pasta like rotini or rigatoni works well.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can be used for a chunkier sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Dried basil can be substituted, use about 1 tablespoon.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Garlic: Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can replace fresh.
- Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free alternative.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the sauce is smooth and combined.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish with Cheese and Basil
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil. Continue to toss until the cheese has melted and the basil is fragrant. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. This makes a fantastic pasta dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the garlic.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken breast or chickpeas at the end.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Smoky Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika can add depth.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover creamy tomato basil penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving is also an option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, use a plant-based heavy cream alternative and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
- What if I don’t have fresh basil? You can use dried basil; approximately 1 tablespoon should suffice. Add it with the tomatoes to allow the flavor to develop.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Rigatoni, ziti, or even spaghetti would work well in this pasta dinner recipe.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Why is my sauce too thin/thick? If too thin, simmer longer to reduce. If too thick, add small amounts of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Can I prepare this in advance? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the pasta and combine just before serving.