Penne with Meat Sauce from Fazoli's features al dente penne pasta generously coated in a savory tomato-based meat sauce, rich with seasoned ground beef, garlic, and Italian herbs, presenting a hearty and comforting classic Italian dish.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 (28 oz/800g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz/425g) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)
Choosing quality ingredients like fresh garlic and high-grade crushed tomatoes enhances the flavor of the meat sauce. Ground beef with moderate fat content prevents dryness while cooking, creating a juicy texture. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred heat level. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese improves the richness and authenticity of the dish. Penne with Meat Sauce from Fazoli's copycat menu combines these elements to deliver a comforting Italian classic with a well-balanced, savory profile.
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
- Add salt to the boiling water.
- Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic on the cutting board with the chef’s knife.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir in sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
- Transfer to a serving bowl using a ladle.
- Garnish with more grated Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Penne with Meat Sauce from Fazoli's copycat menu delivers a rich blend of al dente pasta and a robust tomato-based meat sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and ground beef. If ground beef is unavailable, you can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different but equally flavorful taste. For a vegetarian variation, replace the meat with sauteed mushrooms or lentils to maintain texture and protein. Using crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce provides a balanced acidity, but swapping in fresh plum tomatoes and a bit of tomato paste can work if canned options are not on hand. You may adjust the dried herb quantities according to your preference, and remember to taste and season your sauce as you go.
Tips
Ensure you salt the pasta water well; it should taste like the sea to properly season the penne. When browning the ground beef, cook it in batches if needed to avoid steaming and achieve a good caramelized texture. Simmer the sauce uncovered to allow flavors to concentrate and avoid a watery consistency. Tossing your penne directly in the sauce before serving helps every bite absorb the rich flavors.
Nutritions
Penne with Meat Sauce from Fazoli's provides a balanced meal with protein-rich ground beef that supports muscle health and iron levels. The penne pasta offers complex carbohydrates to fuel your energy needs, while the tomato-based sauce delivers antioxidants like lycopene along with vitamins A and C. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and the blend of herbs adds flavor without extra calories or sodium. Your meal also includes a modest amount of calcium and protein from Parmesan cheese, enhancing bone strength and satiety.
Storage
Store leftover Penne with Meat Sauce in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef to create a different protein profile while maintaining the rich flavor of the meat sauce. Incorporate finely chopped carrots and celery with the onion to enhance the sauce's texture and add natural sweetness. For a creamier variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving. Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried to brighten the sauce and provide a fresher herbal note.
Allergies
Penne with Meat Sauce from Fazoli's contains common allergens such as gluten from the penne pasta and dairy from the Parmesan cheese. The ground beef and tomato-based sauce are generally safe but could trigger sensitivities if you have a meat or nightshade allergy. Always check for cross-contamination or specific ingredient sensitivities when enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Penne with Meat Sauce from Fazoli's restaurant stands out for its rich, savory flavor that combines perfectly seasoned ground beef with a hearty tomato sauce. The al dente penne pasta absorbs the sauce well, creating a satisfying and comforting meal experience. Preparing a copycat version at home lets you customize the ingredients, control the seasoning level, and enjoy fresh, high-quality components. Your homemade dish can replicate the iconic taste while offering a personal touch for family and friends.