Credenza: A Classic Italian Masterpiece for Your Dinner Table

Ingredients

  • 500g of penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 400g of canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 cup of cream
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil

Steps and instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the canned crushed tomatoes to the skillet, followed by the sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in the cream and the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Let the sauce cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is coated with the sauce.
  7. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the pasta just before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute penne pasta with your preferred type of pasta such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni.
  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground beef for a protein-rich variation.
  • Include vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Replace the cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes to customize the flavor profile.
  • Sprinkle some breadcrumbs or grated mozzarella cheese on top and bake in the oven for a crispy, cheesy crust.
  • For a healthier version, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
  • Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to give the sauce a tangy twist.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit meat and increase the amount of vegetables or add plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.

Recipe overview

This recipe is for a classic and comforting dish, known as Penne Credenza. This pasta dish is cooked with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, combined with the savory flavors of onion, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Expect to create a delightful Italian-inspired meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or for entertaining guests. It's an easy-to-follow recipe resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish that's sure to be a hit with everyone at your table. This recipe makes enough to serve four, and it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. Get ready to immerse in the delightful process of cooking this appealing pasta dish!

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, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
  2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes. Simply peel and chop about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes and cook them down until they become a sauce-like consistency.
  3. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried basil instead of fresh. Just remember to reduce the amount to 1/2 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
  4. Can I omit the cream or use a substitute? Yes, you can omit the cream if you prefer a lighter version of the dish. Alternatively, you can use a dairy-free substitute like coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan-friendly option.
  5. Can I add vegetables or protein to this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also include cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground meat to make it a heartier meal.
  6. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little bit of additional sauce or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Pasta, the main ingredient in our recipe, is a staple in Italian cuisine with a history as rich and diverse as the country itself. While it's a common belief that pasta was brought to Italy by Marco Polo from his travels to China, historical evidence suggests that pasta was already present in Italy long before his journey in the 13th century. It's said that the Etruscans in the Tuscany region made pasta as early as the 4th century BC, carving images of their pasta-making process on their tomb walls. The pasta they made was likely a simple, flat version, not too different from the lasagna we know today. So each time we boil a pot of pasta, we're not just preparing a meal, we're partaking in a culinary tradition that spans centuries and civilizations!

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.