Creamy Tomato Penne

Ingredients

• 1 pound Penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 28 ounces Crushed tomatoes
• 0.5 cup Heavy cream
• 0.5 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente according to package directions.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

4. 4

   Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper, then simmer the sauce for 10 minutes on low heat.

5. 5

   Stir in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and velvety.

6. 6

   Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain the penne and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce.

7. 7

   Toss the pasta to coat thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved water if the sauce is too thick.

8. 8

   Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and fresh basil before serving immediately.