Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce: A Perfect Weeknight Dinner Idea

This penne pasta with marinara sauce is an excellent choice for a quick, flavorful, and versatile dinner. You can prepare this easy recipe in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying, and everyone will love it, made with just a few simple ingredients.

The simplicity of penne pasta with marinara sauce is part of its appeal. The pasta complements the rich tomato sauce, and you can easily customize it with various ingredients to suit your tastes. It’s simple to make with pasta and sauce, but you can add meats, vegetables, or cheese to make it taste even better. 

No matter your cooking experience, this penne pasta recipes is always a hit, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. Read this article for an easy, delicious penne pasta recipe, along with simple ways to customize it. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe will become a favorite.

Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce: A Perfect Weeknight Dinner Idea

Recipe by SamiraCourse: PastaCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

19

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
  

• 12 oz penne pasta
  

• Salt (for pasta water)

• For the Marinara Sauce:
  

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  

• 1 medium onion, chopped
  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
  

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional Add-ins:
  

• Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese
  

• Sautéed vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers)
  

• Protein (grilled chicken, shrimp, sausage, or ground turkey)

Directions

• Cook the Pasta:
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes (refer to package instructions).
  Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
• Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
  Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat.
  Add garlic and onion; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
• Combine Pasta and Sauce:
  Toss the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce in the pan.
  Add reserved pasta water if needed for a smoother consistency.
  Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
• Optional Toppings:
  Garnish with grated cheese, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes for additional flavor.

Notes

• Dietary Options: For a vegan dish, use egg-free pasta and plant-based cheese. For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free penne.
• Storage: Store pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers. Pasta lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator; sauce lasts up to 5 days. Marinara sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm the sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if thickened. Reheat pasta separately by boiling briefly or microwaving with a damp paper towel.

What is Penne Pasta?

Penne pasta  is a special pasta that comes in small, tube-like shapes with angled edges. Its name comes from the Italian word  penna,  which means  pen,  because it looks like the tip of a fountain pen. Penne pasta’s firm texture makes it ideal for holding sauces, making it popular in many Italian dishes, especially those with hearty sauces like marinara. 

Penne pasta is perfect for sauces that cling to the pasta. The ridges on the surface help hold the sauce, making each bite flavorful. Its shape also makes it an ideal base for various sauces, from simple tomato sauce to more complex dishes.

Originating in Italy, penne pasta has become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine and is now enjoyed worldwide. People often put it in baked dishes like  pasta al forno  or eat it with meatballs, veggies, or cheese. Penne is a favorite among both home cooks and professional chefs because of its versatility and ease of preparation

Marinara Sauce Essentials 

The simple but tasty ingredients in  Marinara sauce  make it a classic Italian tomato sauce. Marinara sauce is typically made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a blend of herbs like oregano and basil. The sauce is tangy and aromatic, making it a perfect complement to pasta.

Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe:

• Ingredients for penne pasta with marinara sauce:
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

This basic marinara sauce recipe is simple to follow and can be changed by adding different ingredients to suit your taste. For example, if you want it spicy, you could add red pepper flakes, and if you want it rich and creamy, you could add cream.

Steak pasta recipes combine the savory richness of tender steak with the comforting heartiness of pasta, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish. Whether it’s a juicy grilled steak sliced and tossed with fettuccine in a creamy Alfredo sauce, or strips of steak paired with spaghetti in a tangy tomato-based sauce, the combination of high-quality beef and al dente pasta offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Variations of Marinara Sauce:

• Spicy Marinara: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the sauce for extra heat.
• Creamy Marinara: Stir in heavy cream or milk for a smoother, creamier texture.
• Meat Marinara: Brown ground beef, sausage, or turkey and add it to the sauce for a heartier option.

No matter the variation, marinara sauce is an essential part of many Italian dishes and a perfect match for your  pasta with marinara sauce  recipe.

How to Make Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Making penne pasta with marinara sauce is a quick and delicious dish that your family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting, classic meal.

Cooking the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente—firm yet tender. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander, but remember to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help the sauce coat the pasta better when mixed.

Preparing the Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce should be made while the pasta is cooking. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a medium-sized pan. Put in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 medium-sized onion. They should be cooked for three to four minutes until the onion is soft and the garlic smells good. Then, add a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Stir the sauce every once in a while as it cooks for 15 to 20 minutes. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich, aromatic flavor.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is ready, toss the penne in the marinara sauce. Toss the pasta in the marinara sauce, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. 

To enhance the flavor, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella to the pasta. For added color and nutrition, you can also mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.This straightforward process results in a delicious  penne pasta with marinara sauce  that will surely please anyone.

Baked penne pasta recipes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a delightful combination of hearty flavors and creamy textures. These dishes typically feature al dente penne pasta layered with a rich marinara or Alfredo sauce, mixed with melted cheese like mozzarella, Parmesan, or ricotta, and often combined with savory ingredients such as ground beef, sausage, or roasted vegetables.

Dietary Variations and Customizations

Changing  penne pasta with marinara sauce  easily fits different dietary needs. You can make this dish your own in a million different ways, whether on a vegan or gluten-free diet or if you want to add vegetables or protein.

Vegan Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce

To make this dish vegan, omit the cheese or use plant-based options like vegan Parmesan. Make sure to pick a type of pasta that says  egg-free  on the box since many regular penne kinds have eggs in them. To add more nutrition to the tomato sauce, add beans, tofu, and tempeh, all plant-based foods. The sauce goes well with these ingredients, and they will make the dish filling.

Gluten-Free Penne Pasta Recipe

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, the solution is simple: swap out regular penne for gluten-free penne pasta. Many gluten-free pasta options are available, including those made from rice, corn, or quinoa. These gluten-free versions also work in the  penne pasta with marinara sauce  recipe. If the sauce absorbs more than you’d like, add some reserved pasta water to keep the sauce smooth and evenly distributed.

Add-ins for Extra Flavor and Nutrition

Adding extra vegetables or proteins can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your meal. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini are great vegetable options that pair well with marinara. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, turkey, or even ground beef or sausage are excellent choices that will make the dish heartier.

Dietary Customizations at a Glance

This dish is highly versatile and can be modified to suit your dietary needs, whether you’re following a vegan, gluten-free, or meat-based diet.

Health Benefits of Penne Pasta and Marinara Sauce

Many want to know,  Is penne pasta with marinara sauce healthy?  It depends on your ingredients, but it can be a healthy, well-balanced meal if you make the right changes.

Whole Grain vs. Refined Pasta

Whole-grain penne pasta offers more health benefits than refined pasta. Since whole wheat pasta is made from the entire grain, it has more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fiber suits your digestive system, helps keep your blood sugar in check, and makes you feel full longer. It can also help keep your heart healthy by lowering your cholesterol. In contrast, refined pasta made from white flour is lower in fiber and nutrients, making it less filling and less beneficial for overall health.

Nutritional Value of Marinara Sauce Ingredients

In addition to being delicious,  Marinara sauce  is also full of nutrients. The base of marinara Tomatoes is high in vitamins A and C, which are good for your skin and immune system. Tomatoes also contain a lot of lycopene, a strong antioxidant that may help prevent some cancers and heart attacks. Olive oil, a main part of marinara sauce, has healthy fats that help the heart and brain work well. Onions and garlic, often found in marinara, can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Addressing Misconceptions About Pasta

Many people view pasta as unhealthy because of its high carbohydrate content. However, if eaten in moderation and with healthy foods like tomato sauce, pasta can be part of a healthy, well-balanced diet. Whole grain pasta and smaller portions can help make pasta a healthy meal.

Meal Pairings and Serving Suggestions

When you serve  penne pasta with marinara sauce,  you might want to serve it with drinks and side foods that complement the dish’s flavors. These additions can improve the whole meal and make it even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes for Penne Pasta with Marinara

Serve  penne pasta with marinara  with soups, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables as a side dish. Garlic bread is a traditional side dish in Italy. It gives food a crunchy texture and a rich, buttery taste. A simple green salad with lettuce, spinach, romaine, or other fresh veggies dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairs perfectly with the warm pasta. Some roasted veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, can make your food taste better and be better for you.

Best Wine with Marinara Pasta

Adding a glass of wine to your meal makes it better. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc goes well with this dish because it is light and refreshing. If you prefer red wine, choose a medium-bodied wine such as Chianti or Merlot. These wines are acidic enough to complement the tomato-based marinara sauce and bring out the flavors of the pasta.

With these meal pairings, your  penne pasta with marinara sauce  can become a complete and satisfying dining experience. 

Vegetarian penne pasta recipes are a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy a hearty, meat-free meal. These dishes combine the rich flavors of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and savory sauces, making them both satisfying and wholesome.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers 

It’s easy to store  penne pasta with marinara sauce  and reheat it for another meal. Here are some easy ways to help your dish keep its taste and texture.

Best Way to Store Leftover Marinara Sauce and Pasta

If you want to correctly store extra marinara sauce and pasta, separate the pasta from the sauce. This will help keep the pasta from getting soggy and absorbing too much sauce. Put the pasta and sauce in containers that won’t let air in and put them in the fridge. 

The pasta will stay fresh for 3-4 days, and the tomato sauce can be stored for 4-5 days. If you make a lot of tomato sauce, you should freeze it to prolong its shelf life. This sauce freezes well and can be kept for up to three months. Just put the sauce in a container or bag that can be frozen and then close it again.

Reheating Methods

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them properly is key to maintaining the texture and flavor. For the best results:

• Stovetop: Heat the sauce in a pan over medium heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or reserved pasta cooking water. Reheat the pasta separately in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then combine it with the sauce.
• Microwave: Place the pasta and sauce in a microwave-safe container, covering it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel—heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Add a little water if needed to keep the pasta from drying out.

Follow these easy steps to repeatedly enjoy your  penne pasta with marinara sauce  repeatedly,   just as you did the first time!

The Ultimate Weeknight Meal –  Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce 

For busy weeknights,  penne pasta with marinara sauce  is the best option. This dish is quick and easy to make, but it can also be customized to suit many tastes. Whether you prefer a classic version with just pasta and marinara, want to add extra veggies and protein, or even make it vegan, this meal can be customized to suit your needs.

This article has covered everything you need to know about making penne pasta and marinara sauce, from the basics to creative versions and changes for people with special diets. We’ve also discussed ways to make the meal healthier and given you some easy ways to store and reheat leftovers.

This dish stands out because it can suit various tastes, whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or friends. The flavors can be mixed in any way you want, and the ingredients are easy to find and not expensive.

We want you to try making your versions of  penne pasta with marinara sauce.  Try adding different vegetables, meats, or spices to make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists and discoveries with friends or family—a dish that brings people together. 

FAQs about Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Welcome to our FAQ section! Here, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about  penne pasta with marinara sauce  to help you make the perfect dish every time. Whether you’re looking for cooking tips, ingredient advice, or creative ideas for variations, you’ll find helpful answers below.