Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this creamy tomato and basil penne pasta. A delicious vegetarian dish that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Penne Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- extra Parmesan and basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions 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 until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream, and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until creamy. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to coat. Stir in Parmesan and basil.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free penne can be used as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
