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A bowl of penne pasta coated in a rich, orange-hued creamy tomato sauce topped with fresh basil.

Creamy Tomato Pasta

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade

Instructions
 

  • Boil 4 quarts of water with 2 tablespoons of salt. Cook pasta until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions for 5 minutes until translucent.
  • Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 60 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes and add dried oregano. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Lower heat to minimum. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until a smooth, orange-hued emulsion forms.
  • Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Increase heat to medium and toss for 2 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta thoroughly.
  • Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil before service.