Penne with Marinara from Fazoli's features al dente penne pasta tossed in a vibrant, tangy marinara sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a classic, comforting Italian dish.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowl
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 can (28 oz or 800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Using high-quality canned crushed tomatoes is essential for achieving the rich, tangy flavor characteristic of Fazoli's Penne with Marinara. Fresh garlic cloves provide a more vibrant and aromatic base compared to pre-minced options. Measuring dried oregano, basil, and other spices carefully enhances the dish's authentic Italian herb profile without overpowering the sauce. You can adjust the optional crushed red pepper flakes and sugar to balance heat and acidity according to your taste preferences. Penne with Marinara from Fazoli's copycat menu combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with a flavorful, herb-infused marinara sauce, topped off with freshly grated Parmesan for an authentic Italian comfort meal.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Finely chop garlic using a chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add sugar if desired for sweetness.
- Simmer sauce for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Toss cooked penne pasta with marinara sauce in the saucepan or a serving bowl.
- Grate Parmesan cheese using a cheese grater.
- Top pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately using a ladle.
Substitution
Penne with Marinara from Fazoli's copycat menu offers a simple yet flavorful dish featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce. If you don't have penne pasta, you can substitute it with other tubular pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti without altering the dish's texture significantly. When fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the sauce. You may also replace dried herbs with fresh ones, adjusting amounts to maintain balance--typically using three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. Your Parmesan cheese topping can be switched out for Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese for a slight variation in taste.
Tips
Make sure to salt the boiling water generously before adding your penne pasta, as this enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. When cooking the pasta, taste it a minute before the package's suggested time to ensure it reaches the perfect al dente texture you desire. Stir the marinara sauce occasionally during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan and burning. Use a wooden spoon to gently toss the pasta and sauce together, helping your sauce coat each penne piece evenly for the best flavor distribution.
Nutritions
Penne with Marinara from Fazoli's offers a balanced source of carbohydrates from 1 lb of penne pasta, providing sustained energy. The marinara sauce made from 28 oz of crushed tomatoes introduces vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while fresh Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium to support bone health. Enjoy Your meal as a flavorful option that combines essential nutrients from both plant-based and dairy sources.
Storage
To store your Penne with Marinara, place the cooled pasta and sauce in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve the texture of the penne and the flavor of the marinara sauce. Avoid freezing the pasta to prevent the sauce from separating and the pasta from becoming mushy.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap penne pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or gluten-intolerant option. Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes to create a fresher marinara flavor by simmering chopped ripe tomatoes for a longer period. Incorporate sauteed onions or roasted red peppers to add more depth and sweetness to the sauce. For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
Allergies
Penne with Marinara from Fazoli's contains wheat-based penne pasta, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. The dish also includes Parmesan cheese, posing a risk for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. You should be cautious if you have sensitivities to any of these common allergens.
Why this recipe?
Penne with Marinara from Fazoli's restaurant is favored for its rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce combined with perfectly cooked penne pasta that delivers a satisfying, authentic Italian experience. The dish features fresh herbs and garlic, enhancing its savory depth while maintaining a balanced, comforting taste. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your preference and recreate the distinctive, delicious flavors in the comfort of your home. This recipe is worth trying because it combines simplicity with bold taste, making it both accessible and rewarding for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.