If you love a comforting bowl of creamy tomato penne pasta, this recipe is for you! It combines the richness of cream with the tangy flavor of tomatoes, creating a perfectly balanced dish. This pasta is easy to make, takes under 30 minutes, and is great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Before you start, ensure your pasta is cooked just right. Follow this guide on How to Cook Rigate Penne Perfectly to achieve the ideal al dente texture.
Many home cooks struggle with tomato sauces that taste too acidic. If this happens, check out How to Balance Acidity in Tomato Sauce for expert tips on achieving a smooth and flavorful sauce.
Why This Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta Recipe Works
.Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
. Rich & Creamy – The perfect balance of tomatoes and dairy.
.Versatile – Works well with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
.Restaurant-Quality – Simple ingredients, gourmet flavors.
Ingredients for the Best Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
Pasta & Sauce Base
- Penne pasta – Holds the sauce perfectly. (Find more ideas in Penne Rigate Recipes.)
- Tomato sauce – The base of the creamy tomato sauce.
- Tomato paste – Adds depth and richness.
- Heavy cream – Essential for a silky, smooth texture.
- Butter & garlic – Enhances the flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty umami flavor.
Optional Additions & Variations
- Proteins: Chicken, shrimp, or sausage. (For a meaty twist, try How to Make a Creamy Steak Pasta.)
- Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
1 Cook the Penne Pasta Perfectly
.Boil salted water and add penne pasta.
. Cook until al dente (firm but tender). (Check package instructions.)
. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. (This helps adjust sauce consistency.)
2 Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
. Add tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer for 5 minutes.
3 Add Cream & Combine Everything
– Lower heat and stir in heavy cream to prevent curdling.
– Toss in cooked penne pasta and mix well.
– Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust thickness with pasta water.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
– Use full-fat cream to prevent curdling.
– Simmer gently—boiling may separate the sauce.
– Save pasta water for a silkier texture.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
- Garlic bread for an indulgent meal.
- Fresh salad to balance the richness.
- Red or white wine for the perfect pairing.
How to Store & Reheat Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
– Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
– Freeze sauce separately for up to 3 months.
– Reheat over low heat, adding cream or pasta water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
1 Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
No, milk lacks the fat content needed for a creamy texture.
2 How do I thicken the sauce?
- Reduce it by simmering longer.
- Add extra tomato paste or Parmesan cheese.
3 Why does my cream curdle?
- Overheating—always add cream over low heat.
- Using low-fat dairy increases separation risk.
4Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta.
Final Thoughts on Creamy Tomato Penne Pasta
This creamy tomato penne pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and a velvety texture. With a few simple tricks, you can create a dish that rivals any restaurant meal.
Try it today, and if you love pasta, don’t forget to explore Penne Rigate Recipes for more delicious variations!