Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet: A Cozy Delight

Name: Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

By Jana.

December 10, 2025

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There’s something undeniably delightful about a bowl of Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet that brings warmth and comfort like an old friend. Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked penne, smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that’s bursting with ripe tomato goodness and a sprinkle of nutty parmesan. The aroma alone could lure you into the kitchen faster than a cat to an open can of tuna.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my kitchen transformed into an aromatic wonderland, and my friends couldn’t believe their taste buds when they took their first bites. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests at casual gatherings. Trust me; your palate will thank you for this culinary adventure!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet

This incredible Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly

One memorable evening, I whipped up this dish for a gathering, and the looks on my friends’ faces were priceless as they devoured every last morsel. They even fought over the leftovers—now that’s what I call a win!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Penne Pasta: Choose whole wheat or gluten-free if desired; both work wonderfully in absorbing the creamy sauce.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes; they’re the star of this show, bringing freshness and flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds that luscious creaminess; don’t skimp out—your taste buds will thank you later.
Parmesan Cheese: Always grate fresh parmesan instead of pre-packaged for the best flavor and meltability.
Fresh Basil: Adds a burst of brightness; tear it up just before serving to unleash its fragrant oils.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves to infuse that irresistible aroma into your skillet; it’s essential!
Olive Oil: A drizzle will help sauté your garlic and tomatoes beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those fabulous flavors coming together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to burn it.

Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes until they meld together beautifully.

Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring gently to combine with the tomatoes. Reduce heat to low and allow it to thicken slightly—around 3 minutes.

Toss in Cheese: Gradually mix in freshly grated parmesan cheese while stirring constantly until melted and creamy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks divine!

Add Pasta & Season: Toss cooked penne directly into the sauce, coating evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly torn basil leaves before serving.

Now you have an incredible Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet that’s not only delicious but also fun to make! Enjoy every bite with good company or just indulge on your own—it’s okay; no judgment here!

You Must Know About Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet

This showstopping Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil for aroma, then add tomatoes to simmer. Cook penne while sauce thickens for maximum flavor absorption. This sequence not only saves time but also ensures the pasta absorbs the rich sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out penne with your favorite pasta shape or add grilled chicken or spinach for extra nutrition. You could also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, making this dish uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth, which keeps the dish creamy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet

This professional-quality Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly

The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it within minutes and declared it “the best pasta ever.” Their laughter filled the kitchen as they begged me to share my secrets, reminding me that sometimes simple ingredients can create magical moments.

FAQ

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet?

If you want to lighten up your Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet, use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour as a thickening agent. This option maintains creaminess without all those calories while still delivering on taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a vegan twist on this classic dish. You won’t even miss the dairy once you taste the explosive flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet?

Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking should take around 20 minutes. In just 30 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress family and friends without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Allow your Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to two months in the freezer; just remember to reheat slowly to maintain its creamy texture when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Conclusion for Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet

In summary, this delightful Creamy Parmesan Tomato Penne Skillet offers a blend of flavor and simplicity that is hard to beat. With easy-to-follow steps and customization options galore, you’ll have everyone at your table eagerly asking for seconds or thirds! Don’t forget the personal touch—your stories shared over this meal will be what makes it truly unforgettable. Enjoy!

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