Easy, Creamy Blush Sauce for Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 ounces) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1-1/2 cups half-and-half cream, divided
• 1/2 cup white wine or reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, divided