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Simple Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce

Simple Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce

Looking for a go-to weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor? This Simple Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce is your answer! With its rich, vibrant sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also satisfies even the pickiest of eaters. Get ready to impress your family with a comforting meal that feels special but comes together in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Simple Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce is a classic that never goes out of style. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week. Here are a few reasons to love it:

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  • Quick preparation—ready in about 30 minutes.
  • Fresh ingredients make all the difference.
  • Customizable to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
  • Kid-friendly and satisfying for adults.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

How to Make Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce

  1. 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.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and stir in the dried oregano and sugar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Toss the cooked penne pasta into the tomato sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  6. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
  • Don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water; adding it to the sauce can help with consistency.

Easy Variations

  • Swap penne for another pasta shape like fusilli or spaghetti.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Incorporate cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
  • For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

What to Serve With It

  • Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping in the sauce.
  • A simple side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette.
  • Roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition.
  • A glass of red wine to complement the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or olive oil while reheating.

Recipe Card

Simple Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

Instructions:

  1. 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.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and stir in the dried oregano and sugar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Toss the cooked penne pasta into the tomato sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  6. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding water if necessary to maintain consistency.

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