My husband loves pasta dishes in general, but what he adores in this Red Sauce Penne Pasta is the balance between tangy tomato flavor and the subtle sweetness from the sautéed onions and garlic. He always says it tastes homemade and hearty, and it never feels heavy or greasy, which makes it perfect for dinner after a busy day. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even a casual gathering with friends. The aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering tomatoes fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere you’ll want to enjoy over and over.

I have been making this recipe for years. I use fresh garlic, a bit of olive oil, and canned crushed tomatoes that are rich and flavorful. Always make sure to season generously and let the sauce simmer slowly, because that’s when all the flavors develop beautifully.

You can serve this pasta with a simple side salad, some garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a few fresh basil leaves for color and extra taste. If you want, a glass of red wine or sparkling water makes it feel like a complete Italian dinner.

Its Perfect For:

• Weeknight family dinners when time is short
• Cozy meals during rainy days or chilly evenings
• Casual gatherings or potlucks with friends
• Quick meals that still feel homemade and special
• Serving as a comforting lunch or dinner for kids

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan for sauce
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for chopping
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Red Sauce Penne Pasta

Step 1

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2

Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3

Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing until smooth. Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season generously with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

Step 4

Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Allow the pasta to heat through for 2–3 minutes, letting it absorb some of the sauce.

Step 5

Serve and garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot and comforting.

Tips for the Best Red Sauce Penne Pasta

• I always salt the pasta water generously, because it seasons the pasta from the inside out.
• Simmer the sauce on low heat, letting the flavors meld slowly, which makes it taste rich and homemade.
• Don’t overcook the penne; al dente texture holds the sauce beautifully.
• I like to reserve a little pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency at the end.
• Using fresh garlic instead of powdered makes a huge difference in aroma and flavor.
• I always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; it ensures the sauce isn’t bland.
• Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan right before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Optional Ingredients:

• Red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness
• Mushrooms, sautéed for earthy flavor
• Spinach or kale for extra nutrition
• Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein
• Sun-dried tomatoes for an extra tangy twist
• Olive tapenade or olives for a Mediterranean touch

How to Serve Red Sauce Penne Pasta

I like to serve this pasta straight from the skillet into a warm bowl, because it keeps the sauce coating every piece of penne beautifully. Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves makes it look restaurant-quality and gives it extra flavor.

I also enjoy pairing it with a crisp, fresh side salad. A simple arugula, cherry tomato, and olive oil salad balances the richness of the sauce, while a Caesar or mixed green salad adds a refreshing crunch. Sometimes, I serve garlic bread or toasted baguette slices on the side to scoop up every bit of the sauce—my husband always asks for extra bread.

Finally, I like to make it a complete, satisfying meal by adding protein or vegetables. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted veggies not only make it more filling but also add layers of flavor and texture. This makes the dish versatile for lunch, dinner, or even a casual gathering where presentation matters just as much as taste.

Is Red Sauce Penne Pasta Healthy?

I think Red Sauce Penne Pasta can definitely be part of a healthy meal. Tomatoes are full of antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart health.

When paired with whole wheat penne and vegetables, it becomes a nutritious option that’s filling without being heavy. Using olive oil instead of butter keeps it light and flavorful, making it perfect for a balanced diet.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Creamy Red Sauce Penne: Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a smooth, rich texture.
• Vegetable Penne: Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to make it extra wholesome.
• Spicy Penne: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the sauce a little kick.
• Meat Lover’s Penne: Add browned ground beef, sausage, or chicken for extra protein.
• Mushroom Penne: Sauté mushrooms and mix them in for an earthy, savory flavor.
• Cheesy Penne: Sprinkle lots of mozzarella or Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy dish.
• Pesto Twist: Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a fragrant, herby variation.
• Gluten-Free Penne: Use gluten-free pasta if you want a lighter or allergy-friendly version.

How to Store, How to Reheat:

I always store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3–4 days, but make sure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing to prevent sogginess.

When reheating, I add a splash of water or a little olive oil to the pasta and gently warm it over low heat. This restores the sauce’s consistency and keeps the penne from sticking together. For best results, reheat only the portion you need to maintain flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Sauce Penne Pasta

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? 

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Peel and crush ripe tomatoes, then simmer a bit longer to allow the sauce to thicken. This creates a fresher, lighter flavor compared to canned tomatoes, perfect for summer meals.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time? 

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta fresh and toss it in the warm sauce for the best texture and flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

 By default, it’s mild and kid-friendly. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce while simmering the sauce. This allows you to control the spiciness without overpowering the tomato flavor.

Can I freeze this pasta or sauce? 

You can freeze the sauce, but cooked pasta may become soft when thawed. For best results, freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat. This keeps the pasta texture al dente and the sauce rich and flavorful.

Red Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Discover a simple and delicious Red Sauce Penne Pasta recipe! Learn step-by-step tips, variations, and serving ideas for a hearty Italian meal your family will love.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
• Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
• Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing until smooth. Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season generously with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
• Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Allow the pasta to heat through for 2–3 minutes, letting it absorb some of the sauce.
• Serve and garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot and comforting.