9 Best Penne Recipes for Delicious Meals Anytime

Penne pasta is a favorite for many, thanks to its versatile shape and ability to hold sauces well. I often find myself experimenting with different toppings and flavors to create a variety of delicious meals. In this article, I will share the nine best penne recipes that are sure to please anyone who loves pasta.

Whether you enjoy a classic marinara or a creamy alfredo, there is a penne dish for everyone. I believe these recipes will inspire both novice cooks and experienced chefs to explore new culinary possibilities. Each recipe highlights the unique qualities of penne pasta while bringing together fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne is a delicious pasta dish that combines rich flavors with a smooth, creamy texture. It features penne pasta coated in a garlic-infused cream sauce and topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Making this dish is simple and quick. I can prepare it in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

To cook, I follow these steps:

1. Boil salted water and cook 12 oz of penne according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Drain the penne and mix it into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.

I like to serve this dish hot, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if desired. It’s a comforting meal that never disappoints.

2. Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka is a creamy pasta dish that combines pasta with a flavorful tomato and vodka sauce. The sauce has a rich taste but is easy to prepare.

To make this dish, I find it simple enough for any home cook. The ingredients are mostly common kitchen staples: penne pasta, vodka, tomato sauce, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Cook the Penne: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Tomato Sauce and Vodka: Stir in 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1/4 cup of vodka. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Cream It Up: Lower the heat and mix in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and optional fresh basil.

This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and is sure to please.

3. Baked Penne with Spinach and Cheese

Baked Penne with Spinach and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines pasta, spinach, and cheese into a warm, baked meal. It is relatively easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need penne pasta, fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, and some seasonings.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, spinach, ricotta, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Add marinara sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate vegetables into a meal. I enjoy serving it with a side salad for a complete dinner.

4. Penne Arrabbiata

Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian dish known for its simple yet bold flavors. It features penne pasta tossed in a spicy tomato sauce, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Making Penne Arrabbiata is quite easy. I appreciate that it requires just a few basic ingredients: penne pasta, garlic, red pepper flakes, canned tomatoes, and olive oil. This dish can be made in about 30 minutes.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Boil water in a large pot and cook the penne according to the package instructions, usually about 11-13 minutes.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add canned tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes. I season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the pasta is done, drain it and combine it with the sauce, stirring to coat.

Penne Arrabbiata is a great choice for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty dinner with friends.

5. Penne with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Penne with pesto and cherry tomatoes is a flavorful dish that combines the freshness of basil with juicy tomatoes. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick meal.

To prepare, I start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Typically, this takes about 10-12 minutes in boiling water.

While the pasta cooks, I make the pesto. I blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Adding olive oil gradually helps to create a smooth sauce.

Once the pasta is ready, I reserve a cup of the cooking water and drain the rest. I mix the hot penne with the pesto, adding a bit of the reserved water to thin it out as needed.

Next, I halve the cherry tomatoes and fold them into the pasta. This adds a burst of flavor and color.

I finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or nuts for garnish. This meal is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings together simple ingredients for a delicious experience.

6. Sausage and Peppers Penne

Sausage and Peppers Penne is a delicious and hearty pasta dish. It combines flavorful sausage with colorful peppers, creating a satisfying meal.

Making this dish is fairly easy. I enjoy preparing it on busy weeknights. The cooking process takes about 30 minutes.

First, I cook 12 ounces of penne pasta in salted water until al dente. While the pasta cooks, I heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Next, I add 1 pound of sliced Italian sausage to the skillet. I cook the sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. I then add 1 chopped onion and 1 sliced bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until they are tender.

Once the vegetables are soft, I stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic. I let it cook for a minute before adding 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces) and seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Finally, I drain the penne and toss it with the sausage mixture. This dish is perfect for serving hot, and I often finish it with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

7. Penne Carbonara

Penne Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that is rich and creamy. It combines pasta with a sauce made from eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. The flavor is comforting and satisfying.

I find it easy to make, even for a weeknight dinner. It can be ready in about 20 minutes, which is perfect for a quick meal.

Here’s a simple way to make Penne Carbonara:

1. Ingredients: Gather 8 ounces of penne, 4 ounces of pancetta, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot. Add salt and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Prepare Sauce: While the pasta cooks, sauté pancetta in a pan until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Mix Eggs and Cheese: In a bowl, whisk together eggs and cheese.
5. Combine: Drain the pasta and quickly mix it with the pancetta. Stir in the egg mixture until creamy.
6. Season: Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Serve immediately for the best flavor. Penne Carbonara is a delightful dish that I enjoy sharing with friends and family.

8. Penne with Roasted Vegetables

Penne with roasted vegetables is a flavorful pasta dish that highlights seasonal veggies. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their taste. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To prepare, I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). I chop my favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, into bite-sized pieces.

Next, I toss the chopped vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper. I spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

While the veggies roast, I cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes in boiling salted water.

Once the pasta is done, I drain it and combine it with the roasted vegetables. I like to add a bit of garlic and fresh herbs for extra flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top completes the dish.

Enjoying this vibrant penne dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into my meals.

9. Chicken Alfredo Penne

Chicken Alfredo Penne is a creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s enjoyable and satisfying, making it a favorite for dinner.

I find this recipe easy to make, perfect for busy nights. It takes around 30 minutes from start to finish.

Here are the steps to prepare it:

1. Cook 8 ounces of penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Lower the heat, and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
6. Combine the cooked penne with the chicken Alfredo sauce. Stir well.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or additional cheese if desired.

This dish is creamy, filling, and perfect for any occasion.

What Are the Origins and History of Penne?

Penne is a type of pasta that is well-loved worldwide. Understanding its origins and evolution offers insights into Italian culinary traditions.

How Has Italian Pasta Evolved to Include Penne?

I find it fascinating how Italian pasta has transformed over the centuries. The roots of pasta can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Italians began making pasta from durum wheat as early as the 12th century.

Penne, specifically, emerged in the 19th century in the Campania region. Its name comes from the Italian word for “pen,” reflecting its unique tubular shape. There are variations, including penne rigate, which has ridges to hold sauces better.

Penne’s shape and versatility allow it to pair with many dishes, from rich meat sauces to light vegetable sauces. This adaptability has contributed to its popularity, making it a staple in Italian kitchens.

What Is the Cultural Significance of Penne?

Penne holds a special place in Italian culture and serves as a symbol of regional pride. In Italy, pasta represents more than just food; it is an integral part of family gatherings and celebrations.

I find it interesting that different regions have their own pasta shapes and recipes, often passed down through generations. Penne is featured prominently in traditional dishes, such as baked penne al forno, which showcases the connection between food and community.

In modern cooking, penne continues to evolve, embracing both traditional and innovative recipes. As I explore this pasta further, I appreciate its richness in history and its role in bringing people together.

What Are the Key Ingredients for Enhancing Penne?

To elevate your penne dishes, certain ingredients play a crucial role. The right sauce and fresh herbs can transform a simple meal into a delightful experience. I focus on these components to enhance flavor and enjoyment.

How Do You Choose the Right Sauce for Penne?

When it comes to penne, the sauce is a key element. A variety of sauces can complement the pasta, but I recommend focusing on three main types: marinara, Alfredo, and pesto.

• Marinara Sauce: This classic tomato-based sauce is vibrant and tangy. Its acidity pairs well with the hearty texture of penne.
• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and rich, Alfredo offers a luxurious texture. Combining it with garlic and Parmesan takes flavors to another level.
• Pesto Sauce: Made from basil, garlic, and nuts, pesto brings a fresh and herby flavor. It works particularly well with penne for a light meal.

I prefer using homemade sauces when possible, as they offer better freshness and control over ingredients.

How Do You Select Fresh Herbs for Penne?

Fresh herbs can elevate penne dishes in significant ways. They add aroma, flavor, and brightness. I usually rely on these key herbs:

• Basil: A staple for Italian dishes, basil adds a sweet, peppery note. I often use it fresh as a garnish or mixed into sauces.
• Parsley: This herb brightens up dishes with its mild flavor. I like to chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it on top for a burst of color.
• Oregano: A strong herb, oregano brings a warm flavor. I usually add it to sauces or toss it directly with the pasta for depth.

By using fresh herbs, I add layers of flavor that enhance my penne recipes significantly.