Rustic Italian Pasta with Marinara
Hearty, simple, and bursting with classic Italian flavors, this Rustic Italian Pasta with Marinara is comfort in a bowl. Featuring tender pasta, a rich homemade marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is ideal for cozy dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients List
8 oz penne or rigatoni
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until thickened.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese and remove from heat.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 320
Carbs: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 10g
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce.
Pairings/Suggestions
Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. A glass of red wine complements the rustic flavors beautifully.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect for fall and winter, but just as satisfying in any season when you crave Italian comfort food.
Conclusion
Rustic Italian Pasta with Marinara is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and flavor to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, this dish is a reliable, delicious classic that never goes out of style.
Rustic Italian Pasta with Marinara
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes320
kcalHearty rustic Italian pasta tossed in marinara sauce, ready in 30 minutes for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
8 oz penne or rigatoni
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until thickened.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese and remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Recipe Video
Notes
- This simple pasta recipe uses pantry staples and delivers rich, classic Italian flavor.
Perfect for busy nights—quick, budget-friendly, and family-approved.
Pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a light green salad.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought marinara?
Yes, but for best flavor, try enhancing it with sautéed garlic and herbs.
Q2: What other pasta shapes work well?
Fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti are great alternatives.
Q3: Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or even white beans for a heartier meal.
