Penne Pasta with Marinara is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. It features perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a rich and flavorful marinara sauce made from high-quality San Marzano tomatoes and a few simple ingredients. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow and incredibly satisfying.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Penne Pasta with Marinara is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is a simple yet delicious meal that can be prepared in under an hour. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions where you want to impress your guests. Additionally, it uses fresh ingredients and allows you to control the flavors. Plus, it’s a vegetarian dish that can cater to a wide variety of dietary preferences.
How to Make Penne Pasta with Marinara
Ingredients
- Kosher salt
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, with purée
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 sprigs fresh basil or oregano, plus more basil for garnish
- 1 pound dried penne pasta, or other favorite pasta of your choice
Directions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season generously with kosher salt.
- Meanwhile, prepare the marinara. Pour the whole peeled tomatoes and purée into a bowl and crush the tomatoes with your hands or the back of a spoon. Set aside.
- In a large cold skillet, add the extra-virgin olive oil and smashed garlic cloves. Bring to medium heat. As the garlic begins to sizzle, stir occasionally and cook until fragrant and golden, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Very carefully stir the tomato paste into the garlic and oil, being cautious of splatters. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Spoon the crushed tomatoes into the pan along with the oil and paste. Season with salt and pepper. Add the basil sprigs and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a bubbling simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove and discard the basil sprigs and garlic from the sauce.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in the boiling water until it is 2 minutes shy of the suggested cooking time on the package. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pasta directly to the sauce, allowing it to continue cooking until tender but still firm to the bite.
- Toss the pasta to coat it well with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
How to Serve Penne Pasta with Marinara
Serve your Penne Pasta with Marinara hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Store Penne Pasta with Marinara
Store any leftover Penne Pasta with Marinara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary to keep the pasta from drying out.
Tips to Make Penne Pasta with Marinara
- Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- If you like your sauce spicy, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Try adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. For a creamy version, stir in a bit of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. How long does it take to make this dish?
It takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick meal.
3. Can I freeze leftover marinara sauce?
Yes! You can freeze the marinara sauce for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
