Description
Creamy tomato basil pasta with a rich sauce and fresh flavor. An easy weeknight dinner perfect for quick, comforting meals.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes, 15 ounces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Pour in a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Remove from heat and mix in the fresh basil.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Add pasta water gradually to control the consistency of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American