Simple and Delicious Penne Pasta Recipe

Penne pasta is a versatile and comforting dish that can be prepared in countless ways. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy, savory sauce or a light, fresh dish with vegetables, penne pasta can be the perfect base. This recipe highlights the best of what penne pasta can offer: al dente pasta tossed in a flavorful sauce that will satisfy your taste buds. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this penne pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe that everyone will love.

Ingredients Of Penne Pasta Recipe

Why You Will Love This Penne Pasta Recipe

This penne pasta recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. The garlic and herbs give the dish a lovely aroma, while the crushed tomatoes and cream create a rich, savory sauce. With just a few basic ingredients, this dish feels gourmet but is so easy to make. Plus, the combination of penne pasta with its ridged texture and a rich, creamy sauce is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this penne pasta will leave you craving more.

Preparation Process Of Penne Pasta Recipe

Making penne pasta is straightforward and quick. You can start by boiling the pasta while preparing the sauce. The key to a great sauce is to balance the flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, and let the pasta soak up all the delicious sauce. This dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend dinner.

Step By Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. Then add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss the Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce.

Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve?

• Serve immediately after preparing while the pasta is hot.
• Pair with a side of garlic bread for extra flavor.
• Add a fresh green salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.
• Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color.
• Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a complete dining experience.
• If serving for a crowd, slice the pizza into smaller portions for easy sharing.

Tips & Variations

Nutrition

• Calories per serving (1/4 of recipe): 450
• Total fat: 21g
• Saturated fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total carbohydrates: 55g
• Dietary fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 13g

Recipe Card

Simple and Delicious Penne Pasta Recipe

Recipe by Rachael ray

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This easy and delicious penne pasta recipe combines perfectly cooked penne with a rich tomato sauce made with garlic, basil, and a touch of cream. Simple yet flavorful, this dish is the perfect weeknight meal or family dinner. The sauce, simmered with fresh herbs and complemented by grated Parmesan, adds a lovely richness to the pasta, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table. For added variety, customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon basil (fresh or dried)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
• Add Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. Then add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss the Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce.
• Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Pasta Cooking Tip: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the sauce.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to thin it out and help the sauce coat the pasta better.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess.

FAQs

Conclusion