Creamy Tomato Macaroni Penne Recipe: A Simple, Delicious Weeknight Meal
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish? Look no further! This creamy tomato macaroni penne recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, impressing your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and simple techniques to deliver maximum flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 pound penne pasta: Choose a good quality pasta for the best taste and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy fat that adds flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic base.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The foundation of our delicious sauce.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds depth and richness to the tomato base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Fresh basil is key for that vibrant, herbaceous taste.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is everything!
- Optional additions: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or some cooked Italian sausage for extra protein.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get cooking! This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed.
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Make the Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Combine and Finish:
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Stir in the fresh basil and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. This dish is delicious on its own, but a side salad or some crusty bread would be a fantastic accompaniment.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier dish: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Add protein: Cook some Italian sausage or ground beef and add it to the sauce along with the tomatoes.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add some vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Use different cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella and provolone.
This Creamy Tomato Macaroni Penne recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
