Why You’ll Love this Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives

When you take your first bite of this Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives, you’ll be hooked!

The creamy mozzarella, zesty olives, and fresh basil create a delightful explosion of flavors!

It’s super easy to make, too! Just cook the penne for 8 to 10 minutes, sauté garlic in olive oil, and mix it all together.

Your taste buds will thank you!

What Ingredients are in Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives?

When it comes to whipping up a delicious dish, having the right ingredients is half the battle. This Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that will leave everyone clamoring for more. Just imagine the creamy mozzarella melting into the tangy tomato sauce, while the olives add that perfect briny touch.

Not to mention the fresh basil, which brightens everything up with a pop of freshness. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or ease of preparation. Who wouldn’t be excited to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness?

Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need for this crowd-pleaser:

• 12 oz. penne or other small tubular pasta
• 4 Tbsp. virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped garlic
• 1 cup pitted ripe olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 tsp. bottled red pepper flakes (or up to 1 tsp. for extra kick)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup cubed Mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Now, when it comes to ingredients, don’t be afraid to get a little creative. Use your favorite type of olives or toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.

If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of white wine in the sauce could elevate the flavor too. Also, fresh basil is lovely, but dried basil can work in a pinch (just reduce the amount a bit since dried herbs are more potent).

And what about the cheeses? Well, who doesn’t like a mix of cheeses? Go ahead and play around with different types or use what you have on hand.

Just remember, the heart of this recipe is its cheesy, comforting goodness, so pile it on!

How to Make this Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives

If you’re ready to whip up a delightful Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives, you’ll want to gather your ingredients first. You’ll need 12 oz. of penne—or any other small tubular pasta you have on hand.

Now, let’s boil the pasta. Bring a kettle of water to a rolling boil and then toss in your penne. Don’t wander off, though! Set a timer for about 8 to 10 minutes, which is just enough time for the pasta to cook until tender.

After it’s had its bath, drain it and give it a little toss with 1 tablespoon of virgin olive oil to keep it from sticking together, because who wants a clump of pasta, right? Now, let it hang out in the pan while you whip up the sauce.

Speaking of sauce, let’s get to the good stuff. Grab a skillet—your trusty friend in the kitchen—and heat it on medium. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and once it’s warm and ready, drop in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped garlic.

Don’t let it brown, just gently sauté it until it’s softened, turning your kitchen into a little garlic paradise. Next, toss in 1 cup of pitted ripe olives, sliced up, along with ¼ cup of fresh basil leaves, which really brings out that Italian flair.

Ah, the smell! Now add a dash of red pepper flakes, starting with ¼ teaspoon for a mild kick, or go up to a whole teaspoon if you’re feeling adventurous.

Then pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce, and heat everything together, stirring until it’s beautifully melded. Finally, stir in ½ cup of cubed mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, keeping the heat low and stirring until those cheesy chunks start melting into the sauce.

Now for the grand finale, pour that decadent sauce right over your warm pasta, and let the flavors mingle for just a moment.

If you’re feeling generous (and who wouldn’t, with this masterpiece in front of you?), serve it up with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.

If you want to take this recipe to the next level, consider making it in a professional Dutch oven for even heat distribution and superior cooking results.

Voila! You’ve just transformed simple ingredients into a warm, cheesy hug on a plate. So, gather your loved ones and dig in. It’s cheesy, it’s saucy, and it might just become your go-to pasta dish.

And if anyone asks, you can say you made it all by yourself—no one will need to know how much you were looking forward to that first bite.

Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives Substitutions and Variations

You might be surprised at how easy it’s to switch up this Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives!

Swap out the penne for fusilli or farfalle for a fun twist. You can add spinach, bell peppers, or even artichokes for extra flavor!

If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding diced jalapeños! The possibilities are endless and delicious!

What to Serve with Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives

Serving Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives is where the fun really starts! I love pairing it with a simple garlic bread sprinkled with Italian herbs.

Just spread butter on slices, top with garlic, and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. A fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette adds crunch, too!

It’s the perfect combination for a cozy meal! Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious Cheesy Italian Penne Pasta with Olives, it’s time to celebrate and dig in!

I can’t wait for you to taste the burst of flavors in every bite. This dish is so comforting and cheesy.

Serve it warm, sprinkle extra Parmesan, and enjoy a satisfying meal with family or friends. Bon appétit! You’ll love it!