The Instant Pot revolution meets Italian comfort food in this super creamy and flavorful Penne Pasta in Tomato Cream Sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights and a crowd-pleaser at casual gatherings.
With garlic, rich marinara, and a swirl of cream and cheese, this dish hits every craving spot. The best part? It’s a one-pot wonder that leaves you with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding kids or guests, this recipe delivers comfort, convenience, and gourmet flair all in one bowl.
Full Recipe:
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1 teaspoon olive oil
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5 cloves garlic, diced
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9 ounces penne pasta (about 3–4 cups)
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12 ounces marinara sauce (low or no cheese)
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup cheese (Romano, Parmesan, or your choice)
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1 cup water
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Directions:
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Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Add olive oil and garlic. Sauté until golden brown.
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Pour in marinara sauce and let it come to a gentle boil (skip this step if prone to “Burn” warning on your model).
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Add 1 cup of water, then stir in penne pasta. Scrape the pot’s bottom to prevent sticking. Make sure most of the pasta is submerged; add more water if needed.
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Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes (or 1 minute less than half the cook time listed on your pasta box).
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Quick-release the pressure manually when the timer ends.
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Stir in cream and cheese while hot until creamy and smooth. Add lemon juice and adjust salt to taste.
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Remove the steel insert from the pot to stop additional cooking. Serve hot!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 433 kcal | Servings: 4
Why This Creamy Penne Pasta is a Weeknight Winner
Creamy Penne Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a dish that exemplifies the perfect balance between comfort food and convenience. With the magic of the Instant Pot, this recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into a rich, velvety pasta dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or even small gatherings when you want a dish that feels homemade but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
This Instant Pot pasta has become a staple in many households, especially among those looking for one-pot, fuss-free meals that the whole family can enjoy. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and kid-approved—a trifecta that makes it a must-have in your weekly meal rotation.
The Instant Pot Advantage
One of the standout features of this dish is its use of the Instant Pot. The beauty of pressure cooking pasta lies in its efficiency. Not only does it cook the pasta perfectly, but it also allows all the flavors to meld together in one pot. There’s no need to boil water separately or dirty multiple dishes—everything happens in the same insert.
The pressure cooking process infuses the pasta with the flavors of the sauce, garlic, and spices in a way that stovetop cooking often can’t replicate. This results in a depth of flavor and texture that’s rich, hearty, and satisfying, without being overly heavy.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The taste of this dish is defined by the harmony between tangy tomato sauce and the luxurious cream. Garlic brings a warm, savory backbone to the flavor, while a splash of lemon juice at the end lifts the entire dish with a pop of acidity. The cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce, offering a smooth finish with hints of sharpness, depending on the variety you use.
Texture-wise, the penne is tender but holds its shape, while the creamy sauce coats every piece generously. It’s a dream for sauce lovers who appreciate that every bite is packed with flavor.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. The base is solid enough to allow for creativity without compromising on taste or consistency.
Vegetables:
You can easily add vegetables to boost the nutritional profile. Try tossing in green peas, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Add them in before pressure cooking, or stir in leafy greens after cooking so they just wilt in the residual heat.
Protein Options:
For a heartier version, incorporate proteins like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or Italian sausage. You can even stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian protein boost. Just be cautious about adding raw meats before pressure cooking, as they may affect the overall cook time and consistency.
Cheese Choices:
While Parmesan and Romano are classic choices, you can experiment with different cheeses. Try mozzarella for stretch, goat cheese for tang, or a touch of gorgonzola for boldness. Add the cheese after pressure cooking so it melts into the sauce without clumping or burning.
Spice It Up:
If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, chili oil, or a dash of cayenne. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add depth and a subtle smokiness to the dish.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
1. Avoid the “Burn” Warning:
The Instant Pot is known for its sensitive “Burn” warning, especially when dealing with thicker sauces. To avoid this, make sure you deglaze the pot after sautéing garlic and before pressure cooking. If your Instant Pot is particularly sensitive, you can layer the marinara sauce on top of the pasta without stirring it in before sealing the lid.
2. Pasta Cooking Time:
As a general rule, you should set the cooking time to one minute less than half the time listed on the pasta package. This ensures the penne stays al dente and doesn’t turn mushy. If the pasta feels slightly undercooked after pressure release, switch back to sauté mode and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add Dairy After Cooking:
To prevent curdling and maintain a smooth consistency, always stir in cream and cheese after releasing pressure. This also ensures the flavors stay vibrant and the sauce remains creamy.
4. Balance the Acidity:
Tomato-based sauces can sometimes be overly acidic. The cream already helps balance this out, but a small amount of sugar or a splash of lemon juice can also help round out the flavors if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Penne Pasta in Tomato Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it suitable for both casual dinners and more elegant meals.
Salads:
Pair with a crisp Caesar salad, arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
Bread:
Serve with garlic bread, focaccia, or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce. You can also toast slices of sourdough with a bit of olive oil and garlic for a rustic touch.
Soup:
For a cozy, complete meal, serve alongside a light vegetable or minestrone soup. This creates a multi-course dinner without too much extra effort.
Wine Pairing:
A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy texture, while a light red wine like Pinot Noir or Chianti works well with the tomato base. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or a herbal iced tea adds a refreshing contrast.
Meal Prep and Storage
This dish is also fantastic for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.
It’s also freezer-friendly—just be sure to cool it completely and store in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Why Your Family Will Love This Dish
It’s no secret that pasta is a universal favorite. But what makes this Instant Pot version special is how it merges homestyle cooking with modern convenience. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug—familiar, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.
The fact that it’s made in one pot with minimal cleanup is a huge win for busy families. The flavors are mild enough for kids, yet rich and sophisticated enough to impress adults. It’s the kind of recipe that can quickly become a family tradition.
Conclusion: A Creamy Classic Made Easy
In summary, this Penne Pasta in Tomato Cream Sauce is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a flavorful, versatile, and foolproof comfort dish that works for any occasion. Whether you’re new to the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers consistent, crave-worthy results every single time.
With its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and customizable nature, it deserves a permanent place in your weeknight rotation. You’ll love how simple it is to throw together, and your family will love how delicious it tastes. It’s not just pasta—it’s pasta done right, with a creamy, tomato-kissed twist.
