Description
Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta with Parmesan
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Topping:
Breaded chicken strips, cooked
Extra grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato sauce, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine the Pasta:
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Add the Topping:
If desired, top the pasta with breaded chicken strips for extra protein and crunch.
Serve:
Plate the pasta and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
This creamy penne pasta is comforting, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Let me know if you’d like more pasta recipes!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped before heating your skillet. Begin by boiling the pasta water—the large pot and tablespoon of salt are crucial for flavor. While the pasta cooks, start the sauce. Gently sauté the garlic in olive oil just until fragrant; browning it will create bitterness. After adding the tomato sauce and herbs, let it simmer the full 5 minutes to deepen the flavor. The key step is reducing the heat to low before adding the heavy cream to prevent curdling. Finally, reserve a half cup of pasta water before draining; if your sauce is too thick, add a splash to help it coat the penne beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pasta pairs wonderfully with various sides and presentations. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted garlic bread. To elevate the dish for guests, plate it in a warm bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a crack of black pepper. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. The optional breaded chicken strips can also be replaced with sautéed shrimp, grilled Italian sausage, or meatballs.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook penne in salted water. Sauté garlic in oil. Add tomato sauce, herbs, and seasoning, then simmer. Reduce heat, stir in cream. Combine sauce with drained pasta and Parmesan. Top with chicken (optional) and extra cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes! Use triple the amount—so 1 tablespoon of fresh basil and oregano each—adding them at the very end to maintain their bright flavor.
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy consistency.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream? Full-fat Greek yogurt or cream cheese thinned with a little milk can work, but add them off the heat to prevent separating.
My sauce seems too acidic. How can I fix it? A pinch of sugar or a grated carrot simmered with the tomato sauce can balance acidity. Ensuring your sauce simmers adequately also helps mellow the flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and combine them while the sauce is hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté only until fragrant.
- Adding Cream to High Heat: This causes the cream to curdle or separate. Always lower the heat first.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Grate a block of Parmesan fresh for best melting and flavor.
- Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy water is a key tool for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
- Underseasoning the Pasta Water: The water should taste like the sea. This is your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and restaurant-quality meal at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master a versatile recipe that serves as a perfect canvas for your own culinary twists. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this dish promises comfort and flavor in every bite. We hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as we do.