Penne Pomodoro

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Simple, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, Penne Pomodoro is a timeless Italian classic that turns humble ingredients into something extraordinary. With every forkful, you get tender pasta coated in a bright tomato sauce, infused with garlic, basil, and a hint of olive oil. It’s a recipe that proves you don’t need much to create a delicious meal.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy dinner party, Penne Pomodoro offers comfort and elegance in equal measure. The cherry tomatoes blister into juicy gems, the fresh basil adds a touch of herbal freshness, and the grated cheese pulls everything together in a warm, flavorful embrace.

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What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use?

For the freshest flavor and vibrant color, cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are the best choice. Their natural sweetness and high juice content break down beautifully into a light yet rich sauce. If you can get them sun-ripened or from a local market, even better.

Canned San Marzano tomatoes are also a great alternative when fresh isn’t available, but for that roasted, fresh-off-the-vine taste, go with cherry tomatoes.

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Ingredients for the Penne Pomodoro

Penne Pasta – The star of the show. Its ridges hold the sauce well, making every bite flavorful.

Cherry Tomatoes – Sweet, juicy, and perfect for roasting down into a flavorful sauce.

Olive Oil – High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the dish.

Garlic – Adds that essential sharp, savory backbone to the tomato sauce.

Fresh Basil – Brings a fresh, aromatic lift that complements the acidity of the tomatoes.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing the flavors.

Parmesan Cheese – Grated over the top, it melts into the pasta adding a nutty, salty finish.

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How To Make the Penne Pomodoro

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain the pasta but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir occasionally and let them blister and burst, releasing their juices. This should take around 8-10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to gently smash some of the tomatoes to create a rustic sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the tomato sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Add Basil and Season

Tear fresh basil leaves and toss them into the pasta. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve with Cheese

Plate the Penne Pomodoro and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Penne Pomodoro

Penne Pomodoro is best served immediately while it’s hot and the cheese is freshly melted. Pair it with a crisp green salad, warm garlic bread, or a glass of red wine for a complete Italian-style meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to restore the sauce’s texture.

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the tomatoes and pasta can become mushy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned whole San Marzano tomatoes. Just crush them by hand or with a spoon and simmer until thickened.

Is Penne Pomodoro vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no meat or animal by-products, making it perfect for vegetarians.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage make great additions if you’re looking to boost the protein.

What pasta shapes work best besides penne?

Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle also work well, especially ones that hold sauce in their grooves.

How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to give the sauce a gentle kick.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil adds a brighter flavor, but if you only have dried, use it sparingly—about 1/3 the amount you’d use fresh.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re craving comforting pasta dishes like this Penne Pomodoro, you might want to explore these flavorful options next:

• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a creamy, savory twist.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells if you’re in the mood for cheesy goodness.
• One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta when you want sweet and heat.
• Creamy Spicy Buffalo Ranch Pasta for bold, creamy flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to pack in some protein and veggies.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever the craving hits.

And I’d love to hear how your Penne Pomodoro turns out! Did you roast the tomatoes longer for extra sweetness? Try a different cheese on top? Let’s inspire each other with your tasty twists.

Questions, feedback, or variations are always welcome in the comments below!

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