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Penne pasta with rich tomato sauce and fresh basil is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner. This hearty and satisfying meal combines al dente penne with a robust tomato sauce infused with garlic and topped with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy penne pasta recipe is not just delicious; it’s also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. With its rich flavors and fresh ingredients, it appeals to both adults and kids alike.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Flavorful: A rich, savory sauce that packs a punch.
- Nutritious: Fresh ingredients for a wholesome meal.
- Customizable: Adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Penne Pasta with Rich Tomato Sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the cooked penne pasta and half of the fresh basil. Mix well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Don’t skip the salt in the pasta water; it enhances the overall taste.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- Feel free to let the sauce simmer longer for a deeper flavor.
Easy Variations
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta and sauce.
- Swap penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Incorporate veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a creamy version of the sauce.
What to Serve With It
- A simple side salad with vinaigrette dressing.
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
- Roasted vegetables for a colorful and healthy contrast.
- A glass of red wine to complement the rich flavors.
Storage and Reheating
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Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Recipe Card
Recipe Name: Penne Pasta with Rich Tomato Sauce and Fresh Basil
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the cooked penne pasta and half of the fresh basil. Mix well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes:
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat.
