Creamy Tomato Penne

This Creamy Tomato Penne has become an absolute legend in our household, a culinary superhero swooping in to save countless weeknight dinners from the mundane. The first time I whipped it up, I was simply aiming for something quick, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. Little did I know it would become a most-requested meal! The kids, usually picky eaters, devour their plates, their faces smeared with the luscious pink sauce, a sure sign of a successful dinner. My partner, who appreciates a hearty, flavourful meal after a long day, always goes back for seconds. There’s something inherently satisfying about the way the rich, tangy tomato base melds with the luxurious cream, all clinging perfectly to the ridges of the penne. It’s more than just pasta; it’s a bowl of pure comfort, a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. This recipe isn’t just about feeding the family; it’s about creating those small, joyful moments around the dinner table, filled with happy sighs and clean plates. It’s become our go-to for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers with friends, and even those days when we just need a little culinary pick-me-up. The beauty of this Creamy Tomato Penne lies in its simplicity, its adaptability, and its undeniable deliciousness – a triple threat that guarantees it a permanent spot in our meal rotation and, hopefully, yours too!

Ingredients for the Ultimate Creamy Tomato Penne

Here’s what you’ll need to create this incredibly satisfying and flavourful Creamy Tomato Penne. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture, resulting in a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home.

• 1 pound (450g) Penne Pasta: The star of the show! The ridged tubes are perfect for holding onto this luscious, creamy tomato sauce. You can also use other robust shapes like rigatoni or ziti.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Extra virgin, if possible, for its fruity notes that form the flavour base when sautéing the aromatics.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped: Adds a foundational sweetness and depth when softened. About 1 cup chopped.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Provides that essential pungent, aromatic kick. Don’t skimp on the garlic!
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb that brings warmth and a slightly peppery flavour.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil: Complements the oregano with its sweet, slightly minty notes. If using fresh, add it at the end.
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a gentle warmth that cuts through the richness. Adjust to your spice preference.
• 1 (28-ounce / 794g) can Crushed Tomatoes: The heart of our sauce, providing a vibrant tomato flavour and good texture. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice for their sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavour that adds incredible depth and richness, and helps to thicken the sauce.
• 1/2 cup Vegetable Broth (or reserved pasta water): Helps to thin the sauce to the perfect consistency and adds an extra layer of flavour. Pasta water also helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
• 1 cup Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce incredibly creamy and luxurious. For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half, but the richness will be less pronounced.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus more for serving: Adds a salty, nutty, umami punch that melts beautifully into the sauce. Always use freshly grated for the best flavour and meltability.
• 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (optional): Helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they are not very sweet.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavours.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste: Adds a final touch of spice and complexity.
• Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped or torn, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of colour and fresh, aromatic flavour just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Creamy Tomato Penne Perfection

Follow these simple steps to create a memorable Creamy Tomato Penne that will have everyone asking for the recipe. We’ll guide you through building the flavour layers for a truly irresistible sauce.

1. Cook the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente – usually about 10-12 minutes. It should be tender but still have a slight bite. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside. Tossing it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil can prevent sticking if it will sit for a few minutes.
2. Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Build Tomato Flavour: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This step “toasts” the tomato paste, deepening its flavour and removing any raw taste.
5. Create the Sauce Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth (or 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water). Stir well to combine everything. If using, add the optional granulated sugar at this point to balance acidity. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet (leaving a small gap for steam to escape), and let the sauce simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. A longer simmer (up to 30 minutes) will result in an even richer flavour.
7. Introduce Creaminess: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, reduce the heat to very low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce turns a beautiful, pale pinkish-orange. Do not let the sauce boil rapidly after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
8. Melt in the Cheese: Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember that Parmesan is salty, so taste before adding too much salt.
9. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained penne pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of penne is generously coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water will help the sauce emulsify and cling beautifully to the pasta.
10. Serve and Garnish: Divide the Creamy Tomato Penne among serving bowls. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavours!

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Tomato Penne

Understanding the nutritional profile can help you enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet. These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Servings: This recipe typically yields 4-6 generous servings.
• Calories per Serving (approximate, based on 6 servings): Around 550-650 kcal. This can vary significantly based on the amount of cream and cheese used, and the specific pasta.
  • Description: A hearty and satisfying calorie count, making it a substantial main course.
• Protein (approximate): 18-22g per serving.
  • Description: Primarily from the pasta and Parmesan cheese, contributing to satiety and muscle maintenance.
• Fat (approximate): 25-35g per serving.
  • Description: Largely from the olive oil, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Includes saturated fats from dairy.
• Carbohydrates (approximate): 60-70g per serving.
  • Description: Mainly from the penne pasta, providing energy. Also includes sugars from tomatoes.
• Sodium (approximate): 600-800mg per serving (can vary greatly with added salt and type of canned tomatoes/broth).
  • Description: Contributions from canned tomatoes, broth, cheese, and added salt. Be mindful if you are watching your sodium intake.

Preparation Time for Creamy Tomato Penne

This Creamy Tomato Penne is surprisingly quick to come together, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavour or quality.

• Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, measuring out spices, and opening cans. Efficient multi-tasking, like prepping ingredients while the pasta water comes to a boil, can shorten this.
• Cook Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes. This encompasses cooking the pasta (10-12 minutes), sautéing aromatics (7-9 minutes), and simmering the sauce (15-20 minutes or more for deeper flavour).
• Total Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes from start to finish. For a truly flavourful sauce, allowing it to simmer a bit longer is always beneficial if time permits.

How to Serve Your Delicious Creamy Tomato Penne

Serving this Creamy Tomato Penne is all about enhancing its comforting appeal. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special:

• Classic Presentation:
  • Serve hot in individual shallow pasta bowls.
  • Garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese – the more, the merrier!
  • Sprinkle with fresh, torn basil leaves or finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of colour and freshness.
  • A final drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil can add a touch of fruity richness.
• Side Dish Pairings:
  • Crusty Bread: Essential for mopping up every last bit of that delicious creamy tomato sauce. Garlic bread or a simple Italian baguette works perfectly.
  • Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, lightly seasoned, make a healthy and colourful addition.
• Wine Pairing:
  • Medium-bodied Red Wine: A Chianti, Barbera, or a light Sangiovese complements the tomato-based sauce beautifully.
  • Full-bodied White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé can also pair well, especially if you prefer white wine.
• Make it a Complete Meal:
  • Consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken breast slices, sautéed shrimp, or Italian sausage (crumbled and cooked with the onions) to make it an even more substantial meal.
  • For a vegetarian protein boost, stir in some cannellini beans or chickpeas towards the end of the sauce simmering time.

Additional Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Penne

Elevate your Creamy Tomato Penne from great to absolutely unforgettable with these expert tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your penne until it’s perfectly al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce. Mushy pasta is the enemy of a great pasta dish!
2. The Magic of Pasta Water: Always reserve at least a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This water is liquid gold – its starchiness helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta, creating a silkier, more cohesive dish. Use it to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
3. Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs are great for simmering in the sauce, finishing the dish with fresh basil or parsley brightens the flavours immensely and adds a lovely visual appeal.
4. Quality of Tomatoes Matters: Using high-quality canned crushed tomatoes (like San Marzano, if available) can significantly impact the final taste of your sauce. They tend to be sweeter and less acidic.
5. “Bloom” Your Tomato Paste: Don’t just stir the tomato paste into the liquids. Cook it for a few minutes with the aromatics. This caramelizes its sugars and deepens its flavour, adding an incredible umami richness to your Creamy Tomato Penne.
6. Low and Slow for Cream: When adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, ensure the heat is very low. Boiling the sauce vigorously after adding dairy can cause it to curdle or separate. Gentle heat ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
7. Spice it Up or Down: The red pepper flakes are optional but recommended for a subtle kick. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different kind of heat. For a milder version, omit them entirely.
8. Deglaze for Depth: If you get some nice browned bits (fond) on the bottom of your pan after sautéing the onions and tomato paste, deglaze the pan with a splash of the vegetable broth (or even a little white wine, if you have it open) before adding the crushed tomatoes. Scrape up these bits – they are packed with flavour!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Creamy Tomato Penne

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delightful Creamy Tomato Penne:

1. Q: Can I make this Creamy Tomato Penne recipe vegan?
   • A: Yes, with a few substitutions! Use a plant-based heavy cream alternative (like cashew cream, coconut cream – noting coconut may impart a slight flavour, or a store-bought vegan cooking cream). For the Parmesan, use a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavour. Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan.
2. Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
   • A: Absolutely! While penne is excellent for trapping the sauce in its tubes and ridges, other shapes like rigatoni, ziti, fusilli, rotini, or even large shells would work wonderfully. Choose a pasta shape that has nooks and crannies for the sauce to cling to.
3. Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • A: Simply substitute the penne pasta with your favourite brand of gluten-free penne or another gluten-free pasta shape. Cook according to its specific package directions, as gluten-free pasta cooking times can vary. The rest of the sauce ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels, especially for broths.
4. Q: What’s the best way to store and reheat leftover Creamy Tomato Penne?
   • A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
5. Q: Can I add protein to this Creamy Tomato Penne?
   • A: Yes, definitely! Cooked shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, sautéed Italian sausage (crumbled), or even meatballs would be delicious additions. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding cannellini beans, chickpeas, or pan-fried tofu cubes. Stir your chosen protein into the sauce along with the pasta.
6. Q: My sauce isn’t as creamy as I’d like. What can I do?
   • A: There are a few things you can try:
     • Ensure you used heavy cream, as it has a higher fat content which contributes to creaminess.
     • Add a little more Parmesan cheese, as it helps to thicken and enrich the sauce.
     • Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream for extra richness and body.