Creamy Tomato Pasta – Easy Weeknight Dinner

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Add 300g of penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 4: Cook Onion and Garlic

Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 medium finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly and becomes fragrant.

Step 6: Simmer Sauce Base

Pour in 400g of crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.

Step 8: Make it Creamy

Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 10: Finish and Season

Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil. Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 11: Serve

Serve the creamy tomato pasta immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

• For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Always reserve some pasta water; it's great for adjusting sauce consistency.

• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh flavor and aroma.

• Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

• Experiment with different pasta shapes like spaghetti, fettuccine, or farfalle.

• Stir in some spinach or kale at the end for added greens.