Penne with Pancetta Tomato Sauce

With a few basics, you can create Jimmy Fallon's favorite pasta dish, originally created by Boston chef Michael Schlow.  The recipe is fairly basic, and the finished flavor is simple but very tasty. 

Penne with Pancetta Tomato Sauce, courtesy of Michael Schlow and Jimmy Fallon
8 oz penne
1/4 c. olive oil
1 small garlic clove, sliced thin
1/2 c. diced pancetta or 1/2 cup bacon, cooked but not drained
1/2 c. thin sliced onion
1 pinch chopped fresh rosemary
2 pinches kosher salt
fresh pepper, 2 grinds
1 pinch crushed red pepper (I didn't use red pepper due to the kids)
2 1/2 c. crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 c. chopped parsley
1/4 c. grated parmesan

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Penne and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain.

While pasta is cooking, heat oil in a large saute pan. Add garlic and saute until golden. Add pancetta (or bacon) along with its juices and onions. Saute for 3-4 minutes or until onions are soft. Add rosemary, salt, black pepper and crushed red pepper and stir for 30 seconds. Add tomatoes and simmer for 6-7 minutes. Swirl butter into sauce.

Add drained pasta to sauce and cook over low heat for 2 minutes or until sauce is slightly absorbed by the pasta.

Sprinkle the parsley and cheese, toss together and serve.