Penne
Creamy penne pasta with crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and spicy tomatoes, offering bold flavors perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. bacon, cubed ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups canned Italian tomatoes ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 small dried red hot pepper, chopped fine
- salt to taste (about 1 1/2 tsp.) ⓘ
- 1 lb. penne ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. fresh grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. fresh grated Romano cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook bacon until soft, then set aside.
- Sauté onions until pale gold, then combine with cooked bacon.
- Sauté for 1 minute using bacon grease.
- Add canned Italian tomatoes, chopped red hot pepper, and salt to the onion and bacon mixture.
- Set aside the tomato mixture.
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and toss with the bacon, onion, and tomato mixture.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon, or add a splash of white wine to the onion mixture for depth. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of dried red hot pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the dish's flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or use smoked paprika for a similar smoky taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Penne dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors of the dish nicely. For added texture, consider serving with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or fresh herbs. For a complete meal, serve alongside Italian recipes like Aunt Lana's Lasagna or a light vegetable medley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help to revive the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can make the pasta gummy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne contains roughly 569 calories, with 18g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (163% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2239mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pastas like rigatoni or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta type to achieve the desired al dente texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon and tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, then combine everything just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Penne?
Penne goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh Caesar salad or some roasted vegetables. Additionally, pairing it with garlic bread or a light antipasto platter can enhance your dining experience, making it a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).