Creamy Roasted Tomato Penne

Pasta • 30 Min • Comfort

Discover this Creamy Roasted Tomato Penne is a rich, Italian flavors-inspired dish where oven-roasted tomatoes and garlic create a natural sweetness and depth, blended into a smooth, velvety sauce that perfectly coats every piece of pasta.

Ingredients

Pasta & Base

  • 250 g penne pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ tbsp brown sugar

Creamy Sauce

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried basil

Finish

  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the tomatoes

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cherry tomatoes and garlic on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.

2. Cook the pasta

Boil penne in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

3. Blend the sauce

Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic to a blender and blend until smooth.

4. Build the creamy base

Pour the tomato sauce into a pan over medium heat. Stir in cream, oregano, and basil, and simmer for 3–4 minutes.

5. Combine everything

Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

6. Serve

Plate immediately and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment

  • Baking tray
  • Blender or food processor
  • Large pot
  • Saucepan

Notes & Substitutions

  • Use canned whole tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are unavailable.
  • Substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk.
  • Not recommended for freezing due to the cream-based sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy roasted tomato penne combines the perfect balance of roasted tomato richness and creamy texture, making it a comforting yet elegant Italian-style pasta that’s simple enough for everyday cooking.

You may also enjoy our Classic Spaghetti Amatriciana, try the Fresh Mexican Chicken Burrito, or go for a Fresh & Healthy Tuna Salad.