Ingredients
Scale
Gather these ingredients to create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Feel free to make substitutions based on what you have available, just as my mother would encourage.
- 1 pound of penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 large can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Don’t hesitate to swap in ground chicken or even a plant-based protein if that’s your preference. Remember, cooking is an expression of who you are and what you love.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, just like it has in my home.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey or beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
As you stir the sauce, remember how each swirl brings together flavors and memories, just as my grandmother would recount stories with each turn of her spoon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
