Easy Tomato Basil Penne

Name: Easy Tomato Basil Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 400g penne pasta; 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipes | Fit Meals

I love whipping up this Easy Tomato Basil Penne on busy weeknights when I crave something simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a vibrant dish that feels like a little slice of Italy right in my kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and about 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those evenings when time is limited but satisfying food is essential. It’s my go-to comfort meal that never disappoints!

Created by

The Chefkevinfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:10:18.952Z

When I first tried making this Easy Tomato Basil Penne, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so divine. The key is to use ripe, juicy tomatoes and fresh basil; they add a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. I often tweak the recipe based on what I have on hand, sometimes adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a sprinkle of parmesan for creaminess.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. By simmering the fresh tomatoes just right, you develop a rich sauce that clings to each piece of pasta perfectly. I recommend cooking the penne al dente for the best texture, and don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright and fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy evenings
Customizable with additional ingredients like veggies or proteins

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

For this Easy Tomato Basil Penne, opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes to achieve the best flavor. Heirloom or Roma tomatoes are both excellent choices as they have a richer taste and a meaty texture, which means your sauce will be heartier. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, a high-quality canned tomato can serve as a substitute. Just ensure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your dish.

Keep an eye out for the tomato's color and firmness—select vibrant red ones with a slight give when pressed. Overripe tomatoes can introduce an undesirable mushy texture, while under-ripe ones may lack the juiciness needed to create a luscious sauce.

Perfecting Your Sauce

The key to a stellar tomato sauce lies in properly sautéing your garlic and tomatoes. Allow the minced garlic to cook until it's fragrant and just starting to turn golden, about 1-2 minutes. If you cook it too long, you risk a burnt taste which can overpower the fresh tomato flavor. Add the diced tomatoes and sauté until they soften, roughly 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for the skins to split and the juices to release, forming a chunky sauce.

Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning as you go! Taste the sauce after adding the tomatoes and before combining it with the penne. A sprinkle of salt and a dash of freshly cracked pepper can enhance the flavors immensely, but remember, you can always add more, so start sparingly.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Easy Tomato Basil Penne, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese just before serving. This creamy texture pairs beautifully with the fresh, bright flavors of the dish. If you're looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be excellent additions. Simply cook them separately and toss them with the pasta right before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will meld beautifully as they sit. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to restore some moisture, preventing the pasta from drying out and ensuring it remains delectably saucy.

Ingredients

For the Penne

400g penne pasta
3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the diced tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the fresh basil, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished dish or topping it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To do this, simply prepare the sauce as instructed, allow it to cool completely, and then transfer it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil if necessary to regain the saucy consistency.

If you’re planning for a busy week, consider cooking the penne pasta in advance as well. Cook it al dente, drain, and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Refrigerate the pasta until ready to combine with the sauce for a quick meal any day of the week.

Customizing Your Dish

This recipe is highly customizable! If you're in the mood for additional vegetables, sauté some spinach or zucchini along with the garlic for added nutrition and vibrancy. You could also add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or switch up the herbs by adding Italian seasoning or oregano for a different flavor profile.

For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before mixing in the pasta. This small adjustment will turn your dish into a decadent meal that still retains the fresh essence of the original recipe. No matter how you customize it, the core flavors of tomato and basil will always shine through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used in this recipe for convenience. Just be sure to choose high-quality whole or diced tomatoes for the best flavor.

→ How can I make this dish heartier?

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables for a more filling meal.

→ What type of basil is best for this dish?

Fresh sweet basil is ideal, but you can also experiment with other varieties like lemon basil for a unique twist.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.