Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a truly comforting and undeniably delicious Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce. Forget complicated recipes; this classic dish is designed for simplicity, incredible flavor, and to be on your table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, a cozy family meal, or a satisfying Meatless Monday option, this recipe proves that homemade doesn’t have to mean time-consuming.
Effortless Elegance: Penne Pasta Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
In the culinary world, some dishes stand the test of time, becoming beloved staples for their sheer comfort and deliciousness. Penne pasta with homemade tomato sauce is undoubtedly one of them. Its timeless appeal lies in the harmonious marriage of perfectly al dente penne noodles and a rich, vibrant tomato sauce crafted from fresh, simple ingredients. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth and satisfaction, incredibly easy to prepare even on your busiest days. Imagine a gourmet-quality pasta dish ready to delight your palate in less time than it takes to order takeout!
Beyond its speed and delightful taste, this penne pasta recipe offers incredible versatility. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting an impromptu dinner, or simply seeking a quick and delicious weeknight meal, it consistently delivers. It’s also an excellent foundation for customization, easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences or to incorporate whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Dive into the joy of homemade cooking with a dish that promises both convenience and an explosion of authentic flavor.
Unlocking Flavor: Why Homemade Tomato Sauce Makes All the Difference
While convenience often leads us to jarred sauces, crafting your own tomato sauce from scratch elevates this penne dish to an entirely new level. The difference is profound – a depth of flavor, a freshness that store-bought varieties simply can’t replicate, and the invaluable ability to control every ingredient. You dictate the quality of tomatoes, the amount of garlic, the type of herbs, and the level of seasoning, ensuring a sauce that perfectly matches your taste preferences. This control also means avoiding unwanted additives, sugars, or excessive sodium often found in commercial products.
Starting with fresh cherry tomatoes and canned petite diced tomatoes creates a sauce with incredible texture and a layered tomato flavor – bright and sweet from the cherry tomatoes, and robust from the diced. Infusing butter with aromatic minced garlic forms a rich base, while fresh basil brightens the entire concoction. This approach guarantees a vibrant, authentic Italian-inspired experience, turning a simple weeknight dinner into a culinary triumph. The satisfaction of simmering your own sauce, filling your kitchen with its inviting aroma, is an incomparable reward that transforms a basic pasta dish into an unforgettable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Absolutely! While penne is a fantastic choice for this recipe due to its tubular shape and ridges that brilliantly capture and hold the sauce, you are certainly not limited to it. This versatile tomato sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of pasta shapes. Consider using rigatoni, which is similar to penne but often larger and with more pronounced ridges. Bowtie pasta (farfalle) adds a whimsical touch, while shells (conchiglie) are excellent at scooping up the rich sauce. Other great options include ziti, fusilli, or even spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer a longer noodle. The key is to choose a pasta that provides a good vehicle for the thick, flavorful sauce. Just remember to cook any alternative pasta type according to its package directions until al dente for the best texture.
This penne pasta with homemade tomato sauce serves as an ideal base for adding your favorite proteins, transforming it from a delicious vegetarian meal into a heartier, more substantial dinner. The possibilities are endless and allow for great creativity! You could stir in cooked shredded chicken, making it a wonderful way to use up leftovers or rotisserie chicken. Ground meats like beef, turkey, or Italian sausage (mild or spicy) are excellent choices; simply brown them in the pan before adding the garlic, draining any excess fat. Cooked sliced sausage, whether Italian, chicken, or even plant-based, can also be sautéed and mixed in. For a lighter protein, consider adding cooked shrimp during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce. Ensure any meat you add is fully cooked before combining it with the sauce to maintain food safety and optimal flavor.
Elevating this dish with your favorite vegetables is a fantastic idea to boost flavor, nutrition, and texture. The homemade tomato sauce is very accommodating to a wide array of additions. Consider sautéing diced bell peppers (any color), sliced mushrooms, or finely chopped onions alongside the garlic for an extra layer of savory depth. Zucchini, spinach, or even small broccoli florets can be added during the simmering process; just ensure they are cut into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking. For heartier vegetables like carrots or eggplant, you might want to sauté them a bit longer at the beginning or opt for pre-cooked versions. If adding a significant amount of fresh vegetables, you might find the sauce thickens slightly more, in which case a splash of vegetable stock, pasta water, or even a little extra diced tomato can help maintain the desired consistency. This is your chance to make the dish truly your own and add a healthy boost!
The beauty of homemade sauce lies in its customizability, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your exact preferences. While fresh basil provides a foundational aroma, don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs and spices. Dried oregano and thyme are classic Italian additions that lend an earthy, robust quality; add them with the diced tomatoes to allow their flavors to bloom. A sprinkle of dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley as a garnish can also add a fresh, herbaceous note. If you enjoy a bit of warmth and spice, a dash or two of crushed red pepper flakes stirred into the butter and garlic at the beginning will infuse the sauce with a delightful kick. For a subtle sweetness and to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, a pinch of sugar can be a game-changer. You could also try a touch of marjoram, a bay leaf during simmering (remember to remove it before serving), or even a pinch of fennel seeds for a more anisy, Italian sausage-like flavor. Taste as you go, and adjust to create your perfect sauce!
Penne pasta with tomato sauce is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a wide array of complementary sides, allowing you to build a complete and satisfying meal. For a light and refreshing contrast, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, like an Olive Garden-inspired dressing, is always a winner. Nothing beats dipping warm, crusty bread into the leftover sauce, so consider serving it with classic garlic bread or homemade breadsticks. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini are excellent for adding nutrients and a delightful texture contrast. For those seeking a more substantial meal, a side of grilled chicken, seared steak, or baked fish would round out the meal perfectly. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine – a Chianti or a lighter Sangiovese would complement the tomato flavors beautifully. The options are plentiful, so choose sides that best suit your mood and dietary preferences!
Storing leftovers correctly is key to enjoying this delicious penne pasta for days to come. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer any remaining pasta and sauce into an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing refrigerator odors. Store the sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this dish also freezes remarkably well. Place the cooled pasta and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace to allow for expansion. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results.
Reheating leftover penne pasta with homemade tomato sauce is straightforward. For individual portions, the microwave is your quickest option: place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat on high power in 60-90 second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or vegetable broth before reheating. For larger quantities, or if you prefer stovetop reheating, transfer the leftovers to a pot or large saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed. Again, a splash of liquid can help rejuvenate the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating, as this can make the pasta mushy. Enjoying this dish a second time around is just as satisfying as the first!
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Tomato Sauce
Crafting a truly memorable penne pasta with homemade tomato sauce starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors that make this dish so special.
- Penne Pasta: The star noodle, chosen for its ridges that perfectly cradle the sauce.
- Salted Butter: Forms the rich, flavorful base for sautéing our aromatics.
- Minced Garlic: The backbone of any good Italian sauce, providing pungent, aromatic depth.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with sweet, fresh flavor when blistered, adding a delightful texture.
- Italian Style Petite Diced Tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, offering a robust tomato base and chunkiness. Keep them undrained for extra liquid and flavor.
- Cornstarch: A simple thickening agent to give our sauce the perfect consistency.
- Cold Water: Essential for creating a smooth cornstarch slurry, preventing lumps.
- Fresh Basil: The quintessential herb for tomato sauce, infusing it with vibrant, peppery, sweet notes.
- Freshly Shredded Parmesan Cheese (optional garnish): Adds a salty, umami finish and a touch of indulgence.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Craft Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce
Creating this delicious and comforting penne pasta dish is a straightforward process, designed to bring maximum flavor with minimal effort. Follow these easy steps for a perfect meal every time.
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Begin by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for an “al dente” texture, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. You might reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be useful later to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Start the Sauce Base: While your pasta is cooking, you can simultaneously start on the sauce. In a very large pan or Dutch oven, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Stir frequently, cooking for about one minute, or until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Next, add the rinsed and halved cherry tomatoes to the pan with the garlic butter. Stir them into the fragrant butter and continue cooking for approximately 4-5 minutes. During this time, the cherry tomatoes will soften and begin to blister and burst, releasing their sweet juices and intensifying their flavor. This step is crucial for building a rich, fresh tomato base.
- Introduce Diced Tomatoes: Pour in the undrained can of Italian-style petite diced tomatoes. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the diced tomatoes to mingle with the blistered cherry tomatoes and garlic-infused butter. This gentle simmering helps to deepen the overall tomato flavor.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until you achieve a completely smooth mixture. This slurry is what will gently thicken your sauce, giving it a luscious, clingy texture.
- Thicken the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for another 4-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Then, slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce. Continue to stir as the sauce thickens. This technique ensures a smooth consistency without lumps.
- Add Fresh Basil and Season: Stir the chopped fresh basil into the pan. Bring the sauce to a boil and let it boil for one minute. This final boil helps to activate the cornstarch fully and ensures the sauce reaches its desired thickness. At this point, it’s crucial to taste the sauce. Since no salt has been explicitly added yet (other than what’s in the salted butter and canned tomatoes), adjust the seasoning with additional salt to your liking. This is also the perfect moment to add any other optional herbs or spices you prefer, such as black pepper or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Remove the pan from the heat. Add the previously cooked and drained penne pasta directly into the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Gently stir the pasta and sauce together until every piece of penne is beautifully coated in the rich tomato goodness. Serve immediately, topped with extra chopped fresh basil and a generous sprinkling of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy the exquisite flavors of your homemade penne pasta!
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Penne Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce
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10 minutes
15 minutes
25 minutes
5 servings
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 16 ounce box penne pasta
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 10 ounce container cherry tomatoes, rinsed and cut in half
- 14.5 ounce can Italian style petite diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 Tablespoon cold water
- 1 Tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- extra chopped basil, optional garnish
- fresh shredded parmesan cheese, optional garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions (until al dente.) Drain and set aside.
- In a very large pan, melt the butter over medium heat then add the garlic and stir. (Note: you can do this while the pasta is cooking)
- Cook for about a minute (or until the garlic is fragrant). Then add the cherry tomatoes and stir.
- Continue cooking for about 4-5 minutes (or until the tomatoes are softened and starting to blister).
- Add in the can of tomatoes and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Simmer the sauce for 4-5 minutes and then slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the sauce.
- Add the chopped basil to the pan and stir. Bring to a boil and allow it to boil for one minute. Note: there is no added salt in this recipe so at this point I like to taste the sauce and see if it needs additional salt.
- Remove the pan from the heat and add in the cooked pasta.
- Gently stir together until all the pasta is coated in the sauce.
- Then serve topped with chopped basil and freshly shredded parmesan cheese, optional.
Notes
- This is a basic recipe that can be customized by adding protein, vegetables, different pasta, nuts, and more. See some of our suggestions in the post.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Keep leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- You can use Roma tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes, if preferred.
Main Course
American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 72g |
Protein: 13g |
Fat: 6g |
Sodium: 52mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 4g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.