01 -
Fill a big pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Toss in penne and cook until tender but still firm, about 10-12 minutes. Keep 1 cup of the cooking water before draining.
02 -
Put olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Toss in chopped garlic and cook until it smells good, usually 1-2 minutes.
03 -
Drop tomato paste into the pan. Keep stirring while cooking for 2-3 minutes to bring out more flavor.
04 -
Add heavy cream to the pan and mix well. Let it bubble softly and throw in red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
05 -
Drop the cooked penne into your sauce and mix until pasta is covered. If sauce seems thick, splash in some saved pasta water bit by bit.
06 -
Mix in grated parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely into your sauce.
07 -
Dish up the hot pasta and top with extra parmesan and fresh basil leaves.