If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors yet luxuriously creamy, this Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Penne is your new weeknight hero. Imagine perfectly roasted cherry tomatoes infused with garlic and olive oil, tossed with al dente penne pasta, and coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, finished with fragrant basil and a hint of spice. It’s comfort food elevated to an elegant level, effortlessly coming together with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Penne hits all the right notes because of the layers of flavor and texture it delivers. Roasting the cherry tomatoes concentrates their natural sweetness and adds a subtle caramelized depth, while the garlic infuses the olive oil with aromatic richness. The heavy cream creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each penne noodle, and grated Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty finish that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes. Fresh basil sprinkled at the end cuts through the richness with a bright herbal note, and a pinch of red pepper flakes brings optional warmth for those who love a gentle kick. Plus, the penne pasta’s ridges and hollow centers capture the sauce perfectly, making every bite a creamy, tomatoey delight.

Shopping List

12 ounces penne pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Hardware & Gadgets

Baking sheet – for roasting the tomatoes evenly.
Large pot – to boil the pasta.
Large skillet or sauté pan – to prepare the creamy sauce and combine everything.
Colander – to drain the pasta.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the sauce.
Knife and cutting board – for prepping garlic and basil.
Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient portions.

Stepwise Method: Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Penne

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and starting to caramelize. This step is crucial for deepening their flavor and creating the base of your sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, creating a luscious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the roasted tomatoes (along with all their juices) and cooked penne into the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and basil on top. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

If you love the rich tomato flavors in this recipe, you might also enjoy the Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine, which offers a similar roasted tomato base with a different pasta shape and texture.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy vegan alternative.
Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain that cheesy flavor without dairy.
Swap penne pasta for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta if desired.
For extra protein, add sautéed mushrooms or pan-fried tofu cubes.

Avoid These Traps

Don’t skip roasting the tomatoes — it’s what makes the sauce so flavorful!
Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente texture holds up better in the creamy sauce.
Be cautious with salt — Parmesan adds saltiness, so season gradually.
Don’t add all the pasta water at once; incorporate slowly to control sauce consistency.

Storage Pro Tips

Store leftover Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my sauce too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, it may not have had enough time to reduce. Simmer it gently over low heat a little longer to thicken. Also, ensure you’re adding the Parmesan cheese gradually, as it helps thicken the sauce. Avoid adding too much pasta water at once.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to use plenty of salted boiling water when cooking the penne and stir occasionally during cooking. After draining, toss the pasta immediately with a small amount of olive oil or incorporate it quickly into the sauce to keep it from clumping.

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes! While cherry tomatoes roast beautifully due to their sweetness and size, you can use grape tomatoes or diced plum tomatoes. Just adjust roasting time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

How do I add more flavor to this dish?

Consider adding a splash of white wine to the cream sauce before adding the cheese for extra depth. Freshly cracked black pepper and additional garlic are great options too. For a smoky touch, toss in some sun-dried tomatoes.

Keep Cooking

Try the Creamy Roasted Tomato Burrata Spaghetti for a luscious twist with burrata cheese.
Explore the Creamy Tomato Basil Mozzarella Gnocchi for a pillowy, cheesy alternative.
For a lighter take, check out our fresh pesto pasta recipes that highlight basil in different ways.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and steps, it’s time to bring this Creamy Roasted Tomato-Basil Penne to life in your kitchen. The combination of roasted tomatoes, cream, and fresh basil is simply irresistible, and the ease of this recipe makes it perfect for any day of the week. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for a bowl of pasta that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavor. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner!

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