Recipes / Penne al Telefono - Authentic Italian Pasta Recipe

Penne al Telefono - Authentic Italian Pasta Recipe

Classic Italian pasta with tomato sauce and mozzarella that creates telephone wire strings when pulled

PT30M · 4 servings

Ingredients

• 400g penne rigate pasta
• 400g canned San Marzano tomatoes
• 200g fresh mozzarella, diced
• 100g parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually 10-12 minutes.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
3. Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. When pasta is ready, drain reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Add penne to the sauce along with half the pasta water. Toss to coat.
5. Remove from heat. Add diced mozzarella and toss vigorously until cheese begins to melt and create strings. Add pasta water if needed for creaminess.
6. Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves. The cheese should stretch like telephone wires when lifted.

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Last updated November 11, 2026.