This creamy tomato penne pasta is a comforting dish made with tender pasta coated in a rich, silky tomato cream sauce. The combination of smooth cream, tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan creates a perfectly balanced flavor that feels both cozy and satisfying. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that can easily be prepared at home and enjoyed any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is loved for its creamy texture and rich tomato flavor. The sauce coats every piece of penne perfectly, creating a smooth and comforting bite every time.
It is also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want a homemade meal that tastes restaurant-quality.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with vegetables, chicken, or mushrooms, allowing you to adjust the recipe to your preference while still keeping the delicious creamy tomato base.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds while stirring until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes to deepen the tomato flavor.
Add the crushed tomatoes and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Pour in a small amount of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes silky.
Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta before serving.
Chicken Creamy Tomato Penne
Add 1 cup cooked diced chicken breast to the sauce before mixing with the pasta to create a heartier dish.
Mushroom Creamy Penne
Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Vegetable Penne
Add vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to give the pasta more color and nutrition.
Extra Creamy Version
Add an additional 1/4 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon butter for a richer and thicker sauce.
Spicy Version
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon for a stronger spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
The sauce can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze the sauce separately from the pasta.
Reheating on the Stove
Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, cream, or water to loosen the sauce while reheating.
Reheating in the Microwave
Heat the pasta in short intervals, stirring between each interval. Add a small splash of liquid if the sauce becomes thick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work very well because their shapes hold the creamy sauce nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before adding freshly cooked pasta.
How do I keep the sauce creamy?
Avoid cooking the sauce on high heat after adding the cream. Gentle heat keeps the texture smooth.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be lighter and slightly thinner.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts smoothly and adds a rich, savory flavor.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas work well with the creamy tomato sauce.
Why should I reserve pasta water?
Pasta water contains starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta while also adjusting the sauce thickness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. The recipe is already vegetarian if made with vegetarian-friendly parmesan cheese.
What herbs can I add for more flavor?
Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano are great options that complement the creamy tomato sauce.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Allow the sauce to simmer a little longer or add extra parmesan cheese to thicken it naturally.
Conclusion
Creamy tomato penne pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with a rich and velvety tomato cream sauce. With its balanced flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special meals. The versatility of the recipe also allows you to add vegetables or proteins, making it a flexible and delicious option that the whole family can enjoy.
A comforting pasta dish featuring tender penne coated in a rich and silky tomato cream sauce made with garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Add crushed tomatoes and simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce becomes smooth.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick.
Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped basil over the pasta before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
Pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli can substitute for penne.
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein.
Do not boil the sauce after adding cream to maintain a smooth texture.
Pasta water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and adjust consistency.
