Penne Pasta Recipes: Discover Delicious Ways to Make This Versatile Dish

Penne pasta is a staple in many kitchens around the world, beloved for its versatility and ability to absorb a variety of sauces. Whether you’re making a hearty tomato-based sauce or a creamy Alfredo, penne pasta can adapt to any flavor profile. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best penne pasta recipes that are quick, easy, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Learn more about pasta dishes on the MammyRecipe blog for further inspiration.

What Makes Penne Pasta So Special?

Penne pasta is a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, known for its distinctive shape and versatile nature. Its popularity can be attributed to a number of factors that make it both a practical and delicious choice for a variety of dishes. Let’s dive into what makes penne pasta so special.

1. Unique Shape for Better Sauce Hold

The defining feature of penne pasta is its tubular shape, which comes in two variations: smooth (lisce) and ridged (rigate). The ridged version, in particular, is excellent at holding onto sauces, as the grooves trap the sauce within the pasta tubes. This means every bite is filled with flavor, making it ideal for heavier, thicker sauces like Alfredo or Bolognese. The smooth version also pairs well with lighter sauces or pesto, offering a more delicate texture.

2. Versatility in Cooking

Penne pasta is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of cooking styles. It can be served hot with a rich sauce, used in a baked pasta dish, or even chilled and tossed in a pasta salad. Whether you’re preparing a simple weekday dinner or a festive holiday meal, penne pasta can be adapted to suit your needs.

3. Perfect for One-Pot Meals

The shape of penne pasta makes it ideal for one-pot meals, which are increasingly popular for their convenience and flavor. When cooked with vegetables, proteins, or sauces in one pot, the penne pasta absorbs all the flavors, creating a unified, mouthwatering dish. This feature is perfect for dishes like penne alla vodka or penne with roasted vegetables.

4. Culinary Traditions and Authenticity

Penne pasta has its roots in Southern Italy and is often associated with rustic Italian cooking. Its name is derived from the Italian word “penna,” meaning “pen,” due to its similarity to a quill pen’s shape. Over centuries, penne pasta has become a symbol of Italian heritage and has been integrated into countless traditional recipes. This authenticity adds to its appeal, as people enjoy connecting with the history of the dish when preparing or consuming it.

5. Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers

Thanks to its hearty shape, penne pasta is perfect for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge and doesn’t become soggy or mushy when reheated. Whether you make a large batch of pasta salad or a big pan of baked penne, leftovers often taste just as good, if not better, the next day. This makes it a time-saving choice for busy households.

6. Adaptability to Dietary Preferences

Penne pasta is also available in a variety of options, making it adaptable for different dietary needs. Whether you are gluten-free, vegan, or looking for a whole grain option, penne can be found in various forms such as brown rice, gluten-free, or whole wheat. This makes it an inclusive dish for a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it.

If you are looking to experiment with different pasta types, check out these ideas for making the perfect chicken salad that will pair wonderfully with penne pasta.

Top Penne Pasta Recipes to Try

Penne pasta is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect base for a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you’re craving something creamy, tangy, spicy, or fresh, there’s a penne pasta recipe for every occasion. Below are some of the best penne pasta recipes to try at home. Each dish brings something unique to the table, so let’s explore them!

1. Classic Penne Arrabbiata 

What it is: Penne Arrabbiata is a simple yet flavorful Italian dish known for its bold, spicy kick. The word “arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, referencing the heat from the red chili peppers that make this dish stand out.

Key Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Crushed red chili flakes
• Canned tomatoes
• Fresh parsley

How to Make It:

1. Begin by sautéing garlic and chili flakes in olive oil until the garlic is fragrant.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions, then toss it with the spicy sauce.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice with their pasta. If you prefer more heat, simply adjust the number of chili flakes.

2. Penne alla Vodka 

What it is: Penne alla Vodka is a rich and creamy pasta dish with a subtle tang, thanks to the addition of vodka in the sauce. The vodka helps to enhance the flavors of the tomato sauce while the cream gives it a luscious texture.

Key Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Vodka
• Tomato sauce
• Heavy cream
• Onion
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese

How to Make It:

1. Sauté onions and garlic in a pan until softened.
2. Add vodka and allow it to cook off for about a minute before adding tomato sauce and cream.
3. Simmer the sauce, allowing it to thicken.
4. Cook the penne pasta and toss it in the vodka sauce until fully coated.
5. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve.

This dish is creamy, flavorful, and comforting, making it a favorite for a cozy dinner. For a richer flavor, you can also add a splash of heavy cream.

3. Chicken Penne Alfredo 

What it is: This is a creamy and hearty dish made with tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and penne pasta. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who loves the classic combination of pasta and creamy cheese sauce.

Key Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Chicken breasts
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic

How to Make It:

1. Cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through. Slice them into strips.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté garlic, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create the Alfredo sauce.
3. Cook the penne pasta and toss it in the creamy sauce.
4. Add the sliced chicken and stir everything together.

This chicken penne Alfredo is a comforting, filling meal that works well for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

4. Penne with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes 

What it is: This is a lighter, fresher pasta dish, perfect for warmer months. The combination of fresh pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes makes it a deliciously vibrant option.

Key Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Fresh basil pesto
• Cherry tomatoes
• Pine nuts
• Parmesan cheese

How to Make It:

1. Cook the penne pasta al dente.
2. Toss the pasta with fresh basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Garnish with pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

This recipe is quick to prepare, refreshing, and packed with fresh flavors. It’s also easily customizable if you prefer adding other vegetables, such as roasted zucchini or bell peppers.

5. Penne with Roasted Vegetables 

What it is: A great vegetarian option, penne with roasted vegetables is both hearty and nutritious. The roasted vegetables provide a depth of flavor, while the penne acts as a perfect base.

Key Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Zucchini
• Bell peppers
• Eggplant
• Olive oil
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary)

How to Make It:

1. Roast the vegetables with olive oil and fresh herbs until golden and tender.
2. Cook the penne pasta and toss it with the roasted vegetables.
3. Add a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
4. Top with crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese.

This dish is an excellent way to get your daily serving of vegetables while still enjoying a comforting, satisfying meal. You can add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added texture.

6. Penne Carbonara 

What it is: A classic Roman pasta dish, Penne Carbonara is made with eggs, pancetta, Parmesan, and pepper. The creaminess comes from the eggs, while the pancetta provides a savory, salty bite.

Key Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Pancetta
• Eggs
• Parmesan cheese
• Black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Cook the penne pasta.
2. In a pan, crisp up the pancetta and set aside.
3. Whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese together, adding black pepper to taste.
4. Once the pasta is done, toss it with the pancetta and the egg mixture until the sauce forms.

This dish is rich, savory, and perfect for any pasta lover who enjoys a dish with depth and flavor. You can also add peas for a slight variation.

How to Make Penne Pasta Salads

Penne pasta salad is the perfect dish for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick lunch. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and can be prepared ahead of time, which makes it an ideal dish for busy days or gatherings. The great thing about penne pasta salad is that you can get creative with the ingredients, adding everything from vegetables and meats to cheese and various dressings. Below, we’ll guide you through the basics of making a delicious penne pasta salad, along with some variations to try!

1. Basic Penne Pasta Salad Recipe 

What it is: The base of a classic penne pasta salad includes cooked penne pasta mixed with fresh vegetables, a protein (optional), and a flavorful dressing. This version is light, fresh, and perfect for a warm-weather meal.

Key Ingredients:

• 1 pound of penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook the Penne Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. If you’re using olives, slice them as well.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Once the pasta is done, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the pasta cool for a few minutes. Then, in a large bowl, toss the pasta with the prepared vegetables, olives, and parsley.
5. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
6. Chill and Serve: For best results, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

2. Mediterranean Penne Pasta Salad 

What it is: Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this version of penne pasta salad features feta cheese, olives, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. It’s vibrant, tangy, and full of refreshing flavors.

Key Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook the Penne Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and cool under cold water.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and slice the red onion. Slice the olives and crumble the feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Combine: In a large bowl, toss together the cooled penne, chopped vegetables, olives, feta, and fresh basil.
5. Add the Dressing: Pour the lemon-oregano dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Chill and Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Penne Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken 

What it is: Adding grilled chicken to your penne pasta salad turns it into a complete meal. This hearty version includes protein, making it a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Key Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill them until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Let the chicken rest before slicing.
2. Cook the Penne Pasta: Boil the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and slice the red onion. If you’re using frozen corn, cook it briefly and cool under cold water.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine: In a large bowl, toss the pasta, grilled chicken slices, chopped vegetables, and corn.
6. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well.
7. Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving, garnishing with fresh cilantro.

4. Penne Pasta Salad with Pesto 

What it is: For pesto lovers, this penne pasta salad combines the fresh, herby flavors of basil pesto with the satisfying texture of penne pasta. It’s a rich, aromatic dish that’s perfect for a light meal.

Key Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup arugula (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Cook the Penne Pasta: Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and cool under cold water.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside. If you’re using arugula, chop it into smaller pieces.
3. Combine: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and arugula.
4. Add Toppings: Top with grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
5. Chill and Serve: Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the pesto to fully coat the pasta and let the flavors meld.

FAQs About Penne Pasta Recipes

1. What Sauce is Best for Penne Pasta?

Penne pasta’s versatility allows it to pair well with a variety of sauces, depending on your taste preferences. Here are some of the best sauces for penne pasta:

• Tomato-Based Sauces: Classic marinara sauce or arrabbiata (spicy tomato sauce) are popular choices. Penne’s ridges are great for catching the sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Creamy Sauces: Alfredo sauce and vodka sauce are excellent creamy options. The richness of the sauce complements penne’s texture and makes for a hearty, satisfying dish.
• Pesto: For a fresh, herbaceous flavor, basil pesto is a fantastic option. Its vibrant taste adds a punch to the simple pasta.
• Meat Sauces: If you prefer a protein-packed sauce, Bolognese (meat-based) or sausage ragu are perfect for penne. These sauces provide a rich and savory taste.
• Cheese Sauces: Mac and cheese with penne is a comforting dish that combines penne’s shape with a gooey, cheesy sauce.

Each of these sauces can be modified to suit your dietary preferences (e.g., adding vegetables for a healthier twist or using non-dairy alternatives for a vegan version).

2. How Do You Make Penne Pasta Taste Better?

To elevate the flavor of your penne pasta, consider the following tips:

• Use Salted Water: Always cook your pasta in well-salted water. This ensures that the pasta itself is flavorful, which enhances the overall dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Overcooking pasta can make it mushy. Penne pasta should be cooked al dente (firm to the bite), which allows it to better absorb sauce.
• Quality Sauce: A great sauce is the key to making penne taste better. Opt for homemade sauces whenever possible or choose high-quality store-bought versions.
• Fresh Herbs and Spices: Add a pop of freshness with herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or freshly ground black pepper can also enhance the flavor.
• Cheese: Grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, can bring a salty, umami-rich flavor to the dish. A little bit of cheese on top of your pasta can make a huge difference.
• Toss with Olive Oil or Butter: For extra richness and flavor, toss your cooked pasta with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or melted butter before serving.

3. What is Penne Usually Served With?

Penne pasta can be served with a wide range of accompaniments. Here are some common pairings:

• Meats: Penne is often served with grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or ground beef. It pairs well with Bolognese sauce, meatballs, or grilled meats.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are often served with penne for added texture and flavor.
• Cheese: Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for penne, but other cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta can also be used in pasta dishes.
• Salads: A side salad, such as a Caesar salad or a fresh green salad, complements penne pasta dishes, especially when served with light sauces like pesto.
• Bread: Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is often served alongside penne pasta, particularly with tomato-based sauces.
• Wine: Penne pasta dishes pair well with red wines, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, especially when served with meat-based sauces. For lighter dishes, a glass of white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio) works well.

4. What is the Most Popular Pasta Dish?

The most popular pasta dish varies by region and personal taste, but some dishes are universally beloved:

• Spaghetti Bolognese: This classic meat sauce served with spaghetti is one of the most popular pasta dishes worldwide. The rich, savory sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs is a fan favorite.
• Lasagna: Another beloved pasta dish, lasagna features layers of pasta, ricotta cheese, meat sauce, and melted mozzarella. It’s a comforting and filling dish that’s often served during special occasions or family dinners.
• Mac and Cheese: A favorite in the U.S. and beyond, macaroni and cheese features elbow macaroni in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a go-to comfort food for all ages.
• Penne alla Vodka: This creamy, tangy pasta with a tomato-based vodka sauce has become a staple at Italian-American restaurants.
• Carbonara: A traditional Roman dish, spaghetti carbonara is made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful pasta dish.
• Penne Arrabbiata: This spicy, garlicky tomato sauce is a favorite for those who like heat in their pasta. It’s easy to make and packs a punch with its bold flavors.

Conclusion

No matter what sauce or cooking method you choose, penne pasta is a versatile and delicious choice for any meal. From rich, creamy sauces to fresh, light options, there are endless ways to enjoy this beloved Italian dish. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or experimenting with new recipes, penne pasta will always deliver comfort and flavor.For additional recipe inspiration, check out our post on the ultimate guide to baked chicken Parmesan, which can be a great side dish to your penne pasta!

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