Penne Marinara Recipe
A quick and authentic Italian Penne Marinara Recipe made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish delivers a rich, comforting flavor that feels like it’s straight from an Italian kitchen.
Print Pin Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420kcal
Cost: $10
Equipment
- 1 Large pasta pot 6–8 quarts; for boiling pasta with enough space to prevent sticking
- 1 Large skillet or sauté pan 12-inch; for simmering marinara and tossing pasta
- 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula Ideal for stirring without scratching the pan
- 1 Colander For draining pasta quickly
- 1 Chef's knife For mincing garlic easily
- 1 set Measuring cups and spoons Ensures consistent results
- 1 Pasta tongs or serving fork Perfect for mixing and serving
- 1 Cheese grater Use for freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Flavor base; toasts garlic gently
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced finely for aroma
- 1 can (28 oz) Crushed tomatoes Use San Marzano for best flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Adds classic Italian aroma
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil Sweet, peppery flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Optional for mild heat
- 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances tomato acidity
- Salt and black pepper To taste, for seasoning
- 1 pound Penne pasta Holds sauce perfectly
- 1 tablespoon Salt For boiling water
- Fresh basil leaves For garnish and freshness
- Grated Parmesan cheese Adds nutty, salty finish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring to a boil.
- Mince garlic and measure out herbs while water heats.
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and sugar.
- Simmer sauce gently for 15 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add penne to boiling water and cook 10–11 minutes until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain pasta (do not rinse).
- Combine pasta with marinara in skillet; toss gently to coat evenly.
- Stir in fresh basil and sprinkle Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Nutrition
Serving: 300g | Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 480mg | Potassium: 720mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 750IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 140mg | Iron: 3mg