Delicious Penne Recipe: Quick and Easy Dinner Idea

When it comes to a comforting, home-cooked meal, penne pasta recipes are a versatile and delicious choice. This classic pasta shape, with its cylindrical form and ridged texture, holds sauce brilliantly, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, creating a delicious penne dish can be both quick and rewarding. In this article, we'll explore a simple yet mouthwatering penne recipe that's perfect for weeknight dinners or when you have unexpected guests.

Why Choose Penne?

Penne pasta is not only delicious but also practical:

• Versatile: Pairs well with almost any sauce, from creamy to chunky.
• Quick Cooking: Typically cooks in just 11-13 minutes, depending on the brand and desired texture.
• Appealing Texture: Its ridges provide more surface area for sauce to cling to, enhancing the eating experience.
• Family-Friendly: Its larger size is perfect for young children and beginners learning to use utensils.

Our Delicious Penne Recipe

Let’s dive into a quick and easy penne pasta recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 250g penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 100g mozzarella cheese, grated
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente - tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve about a cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Pour in the tomato puree, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has simmered, reduce the heat, then add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

Lower the heat and sprinkle the grated mozzarella over the pasta. Stir gently to mix, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Once the cheese has partially melted, serve the pasta immediately, garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

🔖 Note: This dish can be easily customized. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or proteins like chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.

Substitutes and Variations

Here are some ways to tweak the recipe to suit different tastes:

• Cheese Options: Instead of mozzarella, you can use other cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino, or a smoked cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Meat Addition: Brown some ground beef, sausage, or plant-based meat alternatives before adding the garlic and onions for a meatier version.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Dairy-Free: Opt for a cashew cream or a plant-based cheese alternative.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To elevate your pasta game, keep these tips in mind:

• Use high-quality ingredients; good pasta and fresh garlic can make a significant difference.
• Don't rinse pasta after cooking. The starch helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
• Always save some pasta water; it's excellent for adjusting the sauce's consistency.
• Choose your pasta shape wisely. Penne is great for hearty, chunky sauces, but for more delicate sauces, consider thinner or smoother pasta shapes.
• Season as you go. Taste your sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional herbs.

Serving Suggestions

To make your penne pasta dinner complete, consider these pairings:

With these elements combined, your quick and easy penne pasta dish will not only be simple to prepare but also delightful to enjoy, bringing comfort and joy to your table. The rich tomato sauce melds with the soft yet slightly firm penne, while the cheese adds an irresistible creamy texture. And with the freshness of basil, this meal will feel like a little piece of Italy, right in your own kitchen.

What can I do if I’m out of pasta?

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If you’re out of penne, you can substitute with other pasta types like fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind the cooking time might vary.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

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Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce just before combining with the pasta to enrich it.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

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Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Refrigerate it and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.