Speedy Creamy Tomato Pasta (Printable Version)

Creamy, rich tomato pasta with penne—quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight comfort food.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces penne pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
03 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Cheese

08 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

# Directions:

01 - Boil penne pasta in salted water following package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
03 - Add cream cheese to the tomato base. Stir continuously until fully melted and sauce appears smooth.
04 - Transfer drained pasta to the saucepan and toss to coat evenly in sauce. Fold in grated Parmesan cheese.
05 - Serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Quick to make perfect for hectic schedules
  • Creamy and tangy with pantry staple ingredients
  • Simple method requires just one pot and one saucepan
  • Always a hit with kids and adults
  • Customizable with veggies or herbs
02 -
  • Great source of protein and calcium
  • Super kid-friendly and easily adapted for picky eaters
  • Makes wonderful leftovers for lunch
03 -
  • Always salt your pasta water generously for the best-tasting noodles
  • Do not rush melting the cream cheese Take time to stir until it is fully smooth so the sauce does not turn grainy
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a more intense flavor than store-bought pre-grated
  • If you want a pop of color swirl in a spoonful of pesto before serving I picked up this trick after a summer trip to Liguria and it makes the pasta absolutely sing with freshness
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