Penne With Tomato Cream Sauce
Penne with tomato cream sauce offers a rich and savory blend of creamy tomato flavors infused with garlic and tarragon, complemented by hearty sausage. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish combines bold tastes with satisfying pasta, appealing to lovers of Italian-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage meat in a skillet and set aside.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine the canned tomatoes with juice, heavy cream, minced garlic, and dried tarragon; bring the mixture to a boil, breaking up the tomatoes with a spoon.
- Add the cooked sausage to the sauce and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Cook the penne pasta in boiling water for 12 to 15 minutes until al dente; drain well.
- Toss the cooked penne with the tomato cream sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade tomato sauce instead of canned. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. If you prefer a little heat, adding red pepper flakes can enhance the dish. Fresh tarragon can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant taste. For a vegetarian option, swap the sausage for grilled vegetables or Italian-style mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this penne with tomato cream sauce hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. It pairs beautifully with Italian-Style Potatoes for a hearty meal. A simple side salad or garlic bread would complement the dish well. For a complete Italian experience, consider pairing it with a robust red wine, such as Chianti.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to the sauce to prevent it from drying out. Microwave or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne With Tomato Cream Sauce contains roughly 1373 calories, with 58g protein, 217g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (116% of the Daily Value), and calcium (107% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as different shapes may require different boiling times.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You could also use a meat substitute to maintain a similar texture while keeping it meat-free.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in a little bit of reserved pasta cooking water or extra cream until you reach your desired consistency. This will help loosen the sauce while maintaining its creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).