Penne Marinara Recipe

Boil water and cook pasta

Bring 4 liters (about 16 cups) of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tbs kosher salt. Add 1 lb penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package directions (usually 10–12 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sweat aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbs extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion and a pinch of salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds, taking care not to brown the garlic.

Build the sauce

Stir in 2 tbs tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to caramelize and deepen flavor. Add one 28 oz can crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Finish sauce with fresh basil

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves for brightness (optional).

Return the drained penne to the large pot or to the skillet with the marinara over low heat. Add about 1/2 cup reserved pasta water and toss to combine. Add the sauce to the pasta (or add pasta to the skillet) and toss vigorously for 1–2 minutes so the sauce clings to the pasta. If the mixture looks dry, add more reserved pasta water, 1–2 tbsp at a time, until glossy and saucy.

Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil (optional) until melted into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and torn basil if desired.