Easy Penne Pomodoro Recipe

Have you ever craved a pasta dish that’s both soul-soothing and effortlessly elegant? This Penne Pomodoro recipe is exactly that—a classic Italian dish that turns a handful of fresh ingredients into something magical. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this easy pasta recipe delivers bold, authentic Italian flavors without the fuss.

What I love most is how versatile it is. With just penne pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a charming trattoria in Rome. And if you’re like me, always juggling between quick meals and healthy comfort food, you’ll appreciate how this vegetarian pasta recipe fits into your routine with ease.

So grab your favorite pot and let’s bring a little Italian sunshine to your table—one delicious bite at a time.

Key Benefits of This Penne Pomodoro Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a go-to pasta dish that checks all the boxes: quick, flavorful, and made with ingredients you actually have on hand. That’s exactly what this penne pomodoro recipe delivers—comfort food that feels gourmet, without the stress.

Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation:

Quick and Easy to Make

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you still want something homemade. With penne pasta and a simple tomato basil sauce, you’ll have dinner on the table faster than takeout could arrive.

Light Yet Satisfying

Unlike heavier cream-based sauces, Pomodoro sauce is fresh and light. It’s perfect for anyone craving a healthy comfort food option that doesn’t weigh you down.

Versatile and Customizable

Make it your own! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, stir in grilled chicken for protein, or top it with freshly grated Parmesan for that irresistible finish. It’s flexible without ever losing its heart.

Ingredients for the Perfect Penne Pomodoro

Before we jump into the cooking, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need for this classic Italian pasta recipe. One of the best things about Penne Pomodoro is its simplicity—you likely already have most of these pantry staples on hand.

Here’s what you’ll need to create that rich, velvety tomato basil sauce and perfectly cooked al dente pasta:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully; feel free to use gluten-free if needed

• Salt – For seasoning the pasta water (don’t skip this—it makes a huge difference!)

For the Pomodoro Sauce

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds depth and a touch of richness

• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced – Infuses the sauce with that signature aroma

• 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes – Crushed by hand or blended for a smooth finish
  (or 6–8 ripe Roma tomatoes, peeled and chopped, if using fresh)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste

• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – For a gentle kick

• A handful of fresh basil leaves – Torn just before adding for that burst of herby freshness

Optional Toppings

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, savory finish

• Drizzle of extra olive oil – For richness and shine

• More fresh basil – Because you can never have too much!

A Few Ingredient Tips:

• San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for their natural sweetness and low acidity, but quality canned tomatoes work well too.

• If you only have dried basil, use sparingly—fresh basil really makes this dish shine.

• Want to make it heartier? Toss in some grilled chicken or sautéed veggies for extra texture and flavor.

With just a few quality ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a dish that tastes like a warm hug from Italy. Let’s head to the stove and bring it all together!

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Penne Pomodoro

Ready to bring your penne pomodoro recipe to life? Cooking this dish is a breeze, and with a few pro tips along the way, you’ll get that perfect balance of al dente pasta and rich, homemade pomodoro sauce every single time.

Let’s walk through it together, step by step:

1. Boil the Pasta Water

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt—it should taste like the sea.
Tip: Salting your pasta water is key for building flavor from the ground up.

2. Cook the Penne

Add penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until just al dente.
Drain, but reserve about ½ cup of pasta water—you might need it to loosen the sauce later.

3. Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
Be careful not to brown it—burnt garlic can overpower the dish.

4. Add the Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or chopped fresh tomatoes, if using). Stir well and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat).
Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.

5. Add Fresh Basil

Just before the sauce finishes, tear in the fresh basil leaves and stir them through. The residual heat will release their oils and give the sauce that signature Italian flavor.

6. Toss the Pasta

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the penne is fully coated.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help it cling beautifully to the pasta.

7. Taste and Finish

Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Then, if you’re feeling fancy, top with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a few extra basil leaves for garnish.

You’re Done!

That’s it—simple, satisfying, and packed with authentic Italian flavor. You’ve just made a dish that’s weeknight-easy but dinner party-worthy.

Let’s talk next about how to serve it like a pro!

Pro Tips and Easy Variations for Penne Pomodoro

The beauty of this penne pomodoro recipe lies in its simplicity—but that doesn’t mean you can’t elevate or customize it! Below are my favorite tips and creative twists to make this dish fit your mood, pantry, or dietary needs. Think of this section as your personal cheat sheet for taking things up a notch.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Cook pasta just to al dente
  Pasta continues to cook slightly after draining, especially when mixed with hot sauce. Aim for that perfect bite—firm, but not undercooked.

• Don’t skip the pasta water
  That starchy water is your secret sauce-saver. It helps emulsify and cling the sauce to the penne for a restaurant-quality finish.

• Use high-quality tomatoes
  If you’re using canned, go for San Marzano tomatoes—they’re naturally sweeter and lower in acidity, perfect for a rich pomodoro sauce.

• Add basil at the end
  Fresh basil loses its flavor when overcooked. Always stir it in at the very end to preserve its aroma and brightness.

• Warm your serving bowls
  A little extra step that keeps the pasta hot longer—especially great if you’re serving guests.

Easy and Delicious Variations

• Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil for a kick. Great for spice lovers!

• Go vegan: Skip the cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative—this recipe is naturally plant-based otherwise.

• Add protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed Italian sausage for a heartier version.

• Toss in veggies: Want more color and nutrition? Try adding sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes.

• Change the pasta: Penne is classic, but this sauce works beautifully with spaghetti, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

Think of these as building blocks for creating your own signature version of penne pomodoro. Whether you’re keeping it traditional or adding your own twist, you really can’t go wrong with this flavorful, comforting dish. Let’s talk next about how to serve it like a true Italian!

Serving Suggestions for Penne Pomodoro

Once your penne pomodoro is perfectly sauced and topped with fresh basil, the next question is: How do I serve it to make the whole meal shine? Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or prepping a quiet night in, here are some thoughtful, delicious ways to complete the experience

Pair It with the Perfect Sides

• Garlic Bread or Crusty Italian Loaf
  A warm, toasty slice is perfect for scooping up any extra pomodoro sauce left on the plate (and let’s be honest—there will be sauce left).

• Simple Italian Salad
  Balance out the rich, tangy pasta with a refreshing mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan shavings, and a light vinaigrette.

• Roasted Vegetables
  Toss some zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers in olive oil and herbs, then roast until golden. It adds color and heartiness to your plate.

Drink Pairings to Elevate the Meal

• A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir
  The acidity of the wine pairs beautifully with the tomato-based sauce and enhances those authentic Italian flavors.

• Sparkling water with lemon
  If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, this keeps things light, fresh, and elegant.

Make It an Occasion

• Dinner for two? Light a candle, play some soft Italian music in the background, and you’ve got a cozy, romantic setup in minutes.

• Family night in? Serve it family-style from a big bowl in the center of the table with extra cheese and fresh basil on the side.

• Meal prepping? This easy pasta recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently and add a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.

No matter how you serve it, penne pomodoro is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s humble, flavorful, and satisfying—everything a good Italian pasta recipe should be. Ready for a quick recap and a few common questions? Let’s wrap things up!

Other Recipes You Might Like

• Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
• Rasta Pasta
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about a dish that’s both simple and deeply satisfying—and this penne pomodoro recipe nails it every time. It’s proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a meal that feels comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit indulgent.

FAQs About Penne Pomodoro

Got questions before you dive in? Totally understandable! Below are some of the most common things people ask when making this penne pomodoro recipe, along with a few helpful tips to make your cooking experience smooth and stress-free.

Still curious about something? Drop your questions in the comments or share your own twist on the recipe—I’d love to hear how you make this classic Italian dish your own!