Penne Recipes: Easy Cooking Tips for Delicious Pasta Dishes

Penne pasta is a staple in kitchens worldwide, beloved for its versatility and ability to pair perfectly with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Whether you’re crafting a rich, creamy dish or a simple tomato-based pasta, penne always delivers. In this article, I’ll dive into why penne has become such a popular ingredient, explore its different types, and share some of my favorite penne recipes that are both easy and delicious.

Introduction and Basics of Penne

Introduction to Penne Pasta

When it comes to pasta, penne is one of my absolute favorites. The name penne comes from the Italian word for “quill” or “pen,” a fitting description of its tube-like, angular shape that helps it hold sauces beautifully. Originating from Italy, penne has become a household favorite across the globe, especially in Italian-American cuisine. Its ridged or smooth surface makes it perfect for capturing all the rich flavors of any sauce, whether creamy or tomato-based.

Unlike some pasta shapes that are more specialized, penne is incredibly versatile. It works well in hot dishes, cold pasta salads, and even baked casseroles. Plus, it’s quick and easy to cook, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners. With its origins rooted deep in Italy’s culinary traditions, it’s no wonder that penne has earned its place as a go-to pasta for so many home cooks.

If you’re curious to learn more about the history of pasta and how it evolved, check out this fascinating resource on The History of Pasta.

Types of Penne Pasta

Did you know that there are two main types of penne? Each type serves its own unique purpose, depending on the kind of dish you’re preparing.

• Penne Rigate: This is the most common form of penne, characterized by its ridged surface. The ridges make it perfect for holding onto thicker sauces like a hearty marinara or rich cream sauce. If you’re making a baked pasta dish, penne rigate is the way to go.
• Penne Lisce: Unlike penne rigate, penne lisce has a smooth surface. It’s great for lighter sauces or olive oil-based dishes. The smoothness allows the pasta to slide through the sauce, creating a delicate and silky experience in every bite.

Both types are amazing, but the real magic happens when you pair them with the right sauces. The ridged variety grips onto thick, meaty sauces, while the smooth version allows more delicate sauces to shine. If you’re wondering about different pasta shapes and their uses, here’s a Pasta Shapes and Sizes Guide that’s super helpful.

Penne Recipes

Classic Tomato Basil Penne Recipe

One of my go-to pasta dishes is a simple yet flavorful tomato basil recipe. It’s light, fresh, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil is a match made in heaven.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in salted boiling water according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, stirring until the pasta is fully coated in the tomato and garlic mixture.
5. Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor:

• For a bit of a kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it sautés.
• This recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarians and vegans—just swap out the Parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
• If you’re looking to add some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would be a great addition to this dish.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

If you’re a fan of rich and creamy dishes, this garlic penne recipe will be a favorite. The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates an irresistible sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of penne.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or lactose-free cream for dietary needs)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for 3-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
5. Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, making sure each piece is well-coated in the creamy garlic sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pairing Suggestions:

• This creamy garlic penne is rich enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking to add a side, a light salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a piece of crusty garlic bread would be perfect.This creamy garlic penne is rich enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking to add a side, try pairing it with something simple, like a dish from this collection of quick, healthy chicken breast recipes or a light salad.
• If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.

For a deeper dive into pasta cooking techniques, you can check out this helpful guide on Pasta Cooking Techniques to ensure your penne comes out perfect every time.

Baked Penne Pasta with Cheese

When it comes to comfort food, baked penne pasta with layers of gooey, melted cheese is hard to beat. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a creamy, cheesy delight that pairs beautifully with the al dente penne. Baked pasta also means the flavors meld together in the oven, giving you a rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 eggs (optional, for added creaminess)
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella, half of the parmesan, and the eggs (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce with the cooked penne, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the sauced penne at the bottom. Add a layer of the ricotta mixture, spreading it evenly.
6. Continue layering the pasta and cheese mixture until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of marinara sauce.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the baked penne rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Best Occasions for Serving:

• This baked penne is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to serve a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
• You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when needed, making it an excellent option for meal prep or busy evenings.

Variations:

• You can experiment with different types of cheese. Try adding gouda or provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.
• If you’re looking to add more texture, consider tossing in some cooked Italian sausage or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also experiment with recipes like this goulash recipe to explore new flavor profiles with penne.

Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

For a fresh and light dish, nothing beats penne with cherry tomatoes and basil. If you’re a fan of such simple yet flavorful combinations, you might also enjoy this sourdough sandwich bread recipe to serve on the side. This recipe is simple, quick, and bursting with the flavors of summer. It’s perfect for when you want something easy yet delicious, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, ensuring it is well-mixed with the tomatoes and garlic.
5. Stir in the fresh basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Why I Love This Recipe:

This dish is one of my absolute favorites for a few reasons. First, it’s incredibly fast—you can have dinner on the table in about 20 minutes. Second, it’s so versatile. You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a handful of pine nuts for some added crunch. The light, fresh flavors make this a perfect summer dish, but I’ll make it any time I need a quick, satisfying meal.

Optional Add-ins:

• If you’re looking for some extra protein, grilled chicken or shrimp make a great addition.
• For a vegetarian twist, add pine nuts or a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Penne with Pesto and Grilled Vegetables

This dish combines the rich flavor of pesto with the smokiness of grilled vegetables, creating a dish that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter yet satisfying meal, this penne recipe brings out the best of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 eggplant, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
3. Toss the sliced zucchini, eggplant, and red bell pepper in olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the vegetables for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.
5. In a large bowl, mix the grilled vegetables with the cooked penne and pesto sauce until everything is well-coated.
6. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Vegetables:

• Make sure your grill is hot before adding the vegetables to ensure you get those perfect grill marks.
• If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or even roasting the vegetables in the oven will work just as well.

Penne with Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

For a rich and hearty meal, penne with Italian sausage and sun-dried tomatoes is a showstopper. The savory flavor of the sausage combined with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes makes for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for colder days or when you need a filling, comforting meal. I love making this when I want something flavorful but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the sausage and sun-dried tomato mixture.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Flavor Profile:

• This dish has a rich, savory flavor thanks to the Italian sausage, and the sun-dried tomatoes add a subtle sweetness that balances out the spice (if you’re using spicy sausage). The combination of garlic and Parmesan elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite full of delicious depth.

Optional Ingredients:

• For added texture and nutrition, you can toss in a handful of fresh spinach right before serving. It will wilt down nicely and add a pop of color.
• If you’re looking for a little heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Penne with Creamy Vodka Sauce (Alcohol-Free Version)

Although vodka sauce is a classic Italian-American dish, this version skips the alcohol while keeping all the creamy goodness. The blend of tomatoes and cream creates a silky sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of penne, offering comfort in every bite. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something indulgent but quick to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in salted water according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

How to Balance the Flavors:

• The key to a great creamy tomato sauce is balance. The tomatoes should provide acidity, while the cream adds richness. If your sauce tastes too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help mellow it out.
• Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences:

• For a dairy-free version, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. The texture will remain creamy, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Cooking Tips and FAQs

How to Cook Perfect Penne

Cooking penne to the perfect texture is an essential skill, and whether you prefer it al dente or softer, a few simple tips can make all the difference.

Boiling Time for Different Textures:

• For al dente (firm to the bite), boil penne for 9-10 minutes. This is the most popular texture, especially when serving penne with sauces like marinara or cream-based options.
• For a softer texture, boil penne for 11-12 minutes. This works well in dishes where the pasta will absorb more sauce or liquid, such as baked penne dishes.

Tips for Preventing Overcooking:

• Overcooked penne can become mushy, losing that satisfying bite. To avoid this, always set a timer and start checking the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time is up.
• After draining, toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil if you’re not serving it immediately. This prevents sticking and further cooking from residual heat.

How to Properly Salt Pasta Water:

• Adding enough salt to the boiling water is key to seasoning the penne from the inside out. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every 4 quarts of water.
• The water should taste like the sea—it may seem like a lot of salt, but most of it stays in the water, while the pasta absorbs just enough to enhance its flavor.

FAQs about Penne Pasta

What is the Difference Between Penne and Ziti?

Penne and ziti are both tubular pastas, but the key difference is in their shape and texture. Penne has angled edges, while ziti has straight-cut edges. Additionally, penne rigate features ridges that help capture sauces, whereas ziti is typically smooth. Both are excellent for baked dishes, but penne is more versatile for saucy, stovetop recipes due to its texture.

How Do I Make Gluten-Free Penne?

Gluten-free penne is readily available in most grocery stores. Look for varieties made from rice, corn, or quinoa flour. Cooking gluten-free penne requires close attention, as it tends to cook faster and can become mushy if overdone. Always follow the package instructions and test for doneness early.

What Sauces Pair Best with Penne?

This type of pasta is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many sauces. For a classic combination, try a simple tomato basil sauce. Creamy sauces like Alfredo or garlic Parmesan work wonderfully with penne rigate, while olive oil-based sauces, like pesto, are best suited for penne lisce. Hearty meat sauces, such as Bolognese, are also excellent due to penne‘s ability to hold onto thick, rich flavors.

Can I Use Penne in Cold Pasta Salads?

Absolutely! Penne is an excellent choice for cold pasta salads. Its tubular shape holds onto dressings, making every bite flavorful. Combine penne with ingredients like cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing salad.

How to Store Cooked Penne for Later Use?

To store cooked penne, toss it lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking and place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze cooked penne, spread it out on a baking sheet first to prevent clumping, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water or sauce to keep the texture intact.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts and Recipe Variations

As you’ve seen throughout this guide, penne is one of the most versatile and delightful pastas you can cook with. Whether you prefer it in a simple, fresh tomato basil sauce or layered with cheese in a baked dish, there’s always a way to make penne fit your culinary needs. Its tubular shape and texture make it ideal for holding sauces and adding depth to any dish.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your penne recipes! Experiment with different sauces, proteins, and vegetables to make each meal unique. Why not try a new variation tonight, like penne with roasted vegetables and a light pesto sauce or a spicy arrabbiata?

I encourage you to share your favorite penne recipes in the comments below. Let’s continue celebrating this incredible pasta shape together, one delicious dish at a time.