Classic Penne Pasta with Rich Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup of tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
  2. Add a pinch of salt and the penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes translucent.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute.
  6. Add the diced bell pepper and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for around 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Stir in the tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Drain the cooked pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
  10. Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
  11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed version.
  • Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Replace the penne pasta with whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
  • Try using a different type of pasta such as fusilli or rigatoni.
  • Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
  • Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrition.
  • Make it spicy by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • For a creamy twist, stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary.
  • Add some grated mozzarella or shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy variation.

Recipe overview

This Penne Pasta recipe is a delightful mix of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal. It's packed with the robust flavors of sautéed onions, garlic, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce, and seasoned with dried basil and oregano. With a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat, this dish is perfectly balanced in flavor. Tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, this recipe yields a hearty meal that's great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Cook time is minimal, and the method is straightforward, making it a great option for cooks of all levels. Whether you're a pasta lover or just looking for a new dish to try, you'll love the flavors and simplicity of this Penne Pasta recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with any other type of pasta you prefer.
  2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried. Just keep in mind that the measurements for fresh herbs may vary.
  3. Can I add meat to this recipe? Certainly! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground meat of your choice to make it a more protein-packed dish.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the meat. To make it vegan, use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
  5. How spicy is this dish with the crushed red pepper flakes? The amount of crushed red pepper flakes listed in the recipe gives a mild to medium level of spiciness. Adjust the quantity according to your preference for more or less heat.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Cook the pasta right before serving, then reheat the sauce and toss it with the freshly cooked pasta.
  7. How long does this recipe take to make? The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes.
  8. What can I serve with this penne pasta? This dish is delicious on its own but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or a vegetable medley for a complete meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - needed for boiling the pasta
  • Skillet - used for cooking the sauce and vegetables
  • Wooden spoon - helpful for stirring the sauce and pasta
  • Colander - used for draining the cooked pasta
  • Grater - necessary for grating the Parmesan cheese
  • Tongs - useful for tossing the pasta in the sauce
  • Serving bowl - needed for serving the penne

Origin stories

Penne, a beloved pasta shape known for its tube-like structure, is proudly hailing from Italy. The word "penne" translates to "pen" in Italian, and this pasta's moniker was inspired by the quill pen. In the old days, quill pens were cut diagonally, akin to the slanted ends of penne pasta. This clever design not only gives penne its distinctive look but also serves a practical purpose. The hollow center and angled ends perfectly catch and hold onto hearty sauces, making every bite of penne pasta a delightful burst of flavor. Next time you relish a forkful of penne, remember you're savoring a piece of Italy's ingenuity that emerged from the pages of history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.