Bring a large pot of sated water to a boil for the penne

In a large saucepan, heat the two teaspoons oil with the garlic over low heat until the garlic begins to brown, about three minutes.

Add the onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt, cover, and cook until the onion is softened, about two more mins.

Add the tomato,1/2 teaspoon salt, and the red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat, and simmer very gently 10 mins.

Stir in the cream and evaporated milk and simmer one more minute.

Meanwhile, after the sauce has cooked five mins, add the penne to the boiling water and cook until just shy of al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water.

Add the drained penne to the saucepan and simmer until the penne is al dente, one to two minutes, adding a little of the pasta cooking water if the mixture is dry. Stir in 1/4 cup of Parmesan.

Top off with basil chiffonade and black pepper to taste