Why is penne the superior pasta shape?
Two words: Sauce. Traps.
While spaghetti lets the sauce slide right off and macaroni can get lost in the mix, penne is engineered for perfection.
Those hollow tubes and ridged edges are designed to hold onto every drop of creamy vodka sauce, chunky meat ragu, or vibrant pesto, ensuring that every single bite is packed with flavor.
Whether you are looking for a decadent "Creamy Dream" to indulge in on a Friday night or a stealthy way to sneak veggies into your kids' dinner, penne is the perfect vehicle.
I’ve compiled the ultimate list of 49 recipes that prove this pantry staple is anything but basic. Get your water boiling, because we have some serious cooking to do.
30 Mins or Less
1. 20-Minute Lemon Pesto Penne
Pesto is the ultimate cheat code for a fast dinner, but adding lemon takes it to a whole new level. The acidity cuts right through the richness of the oil and nuts, making the whole dish pop.
Stir in a little bit of the starchy pasta water to emulsify the pesto into a creamy sauce that clings to the penne ridges. Fresh lemon zest grated right on top before serving is non-negotiable for that bright aroma.
I keep a jar of high-quality pesto in the pantry just for nights when cooking feels like a chore. This meal saves me from ordering takeout every single time.
2. Easy Penne Arrabbiata
If you like a little heat, this "angry" pasta is going to be your new best friend. It relies on a simple tomato base that gets a serious kick from red chili flakes and plenty of garlic.
Sauté the garlic and chili in olive oil gently so the oil gets infused with spice before you even add the tomatoes. You want the sauce to be vibrant and spicy, coating the pasta rather than drowning it.
Whenever I need a late-night snack that feels like a meal, this is the one. It wakes up your palate and satisfies those carb cravings instantly.
3. Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
You can have the best of both worlds with this pink sauce that balances acidity and creaminess. It is comfort food that sneaks in a whole bag of spinach without anyone complaining.
Use mascarpone or heavy cream to turn a standard marinara into a luxurious velvet sauce. Toss the spinach in at the very last second so it wilts but doesn't turn into mush.
My kids devour this without picking out the green stuff. That is a major victory in my house.
4. Penne Aglio e Olio
This is the pasta equivalent of a little black dress because it is simple, elegant, and perfect for any occasion. It is just garlic, olive oil, parsley, and chili flakes, but the technique makes it sing.
Toasting the garlic slices until they are pale gold is the secret to avoiding a bitter taste. Reserve a good mugful of pasta water to create an emulsion with the oil so the sauce isn't greasy.
Fair warning, you will smell like garlic for days after eating this. But honestly, it is totally worth it.
5. Penne with Garlic Butter Shrimp
Surf and turf vibes on a budget?
Yes, please. This dish feels fancy enough for date night but comes together faster than you can set the table.
Sear the shrimp quickly in a hot pan so they stay plump and juicy, then remove them while you make the garlic butter sauce. Toss the penne in the sauce and add the shrimp back at the end to warm through.
Making this always makes me feel like a professional chef. It is light, buttery, and looks beautiful on a plate.
6. Penne with Cherry Tomatoes and Burrata
Burrata is the queen of cheeses, and placing a cold ball of it on top of hot pasta is a power move. The creamy center spills out and creates a sauce as you eat.
Roast or blister the cherry tomatoes in a pan until they burst to create a naturally sweet and chunky sauce. The contrast between the hot, acidic tomatoes and the cool, creamy cheese is texture heaven.
Summer dinners aren't complete without this dish. It highlights fresh produce in the best way possible.
7. Penne with Spinach and Lemon Ricotta
Ricotta isn't just for lasagna; it makes a fresh, light sauce when whipped with lemon juice. This dish feels like spring on a plate.
Don't cook the ricotta; just dollop it onto the hot pasta and spinach mixture. The residual heat warms the cheese without making it grainy.
This is my go-to lunch prep. It tastes great warm but is surprisingly delicious at room temperature too.
8. Penne with Sausage and Kale
Hearty greens and savory sausage are a match made in heaven. The fat from the sausage wilts the kale and flavors the entire dish.
Brown the sausage well to get those crispy bits, then deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or broth. The penne acts as a vehicle to scoop up the sausage crumbles.
Winter nights call for a bowl of this. It sticks to your ribs and keeps you full for hours.
Creamy Dreams (Decadent Comfort Vibes)
9. Creamy Tomato Tuna Penne Pasta
Don't turn your nose up at canned tuna until you try this creamy pasta bake hack. It is a pantry staple miracle that tastes way more expensive than it is.
Mix drained tuna into a creamy tomato sauce and toss with the penne. The flakes of fish add protein and a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes.
I was skeptical at first, but now it is a regular rotation. It is savory, rich, and incredibly comforting.
10. Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce
Vodka sauce is the glossy, pink celebrity of the pasta world. The alcohol helps release flavors in the tomatoes that you can't get with water or broth alone.
Simmer the sauce until the vodka reduces significantly so you don't get a harsh boozy bite. Puree the sauce if you want that restaurant-style smoothness that coats every inch of the penne.
Serving this makes any Tuesday feel like a celebration. It is indulgent and lush.
11. Caprese Penne
Take your favorite salad and turn it into a warm, cheesy pasta dish. Fresh mozzarella pearls, basil, and tomatoes are the holy trinity here.
Toss the mozzarella pearls in right before serving so they soften and get stringy but don't fully melt away. Use the freshest basil you can find for that peppery, aromatic finish.
When my garden is exploding with basil, this is what I make. It is fresh yet comforting.
12. Penne alla Vodka
Yes, another vodka sauce, but this version focuses on the additions that make it hearty. Traditionally, you might find prosciutto or pancetta crisping up in the pan before the cream hits.
Render the fat from the cured pork to sauté your onions for a deep flavor base. The cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the saltiness of the meat.
Bring a big bowl of this to a potluck and watch it disappear. It is a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves.
13. Penne Alfredo
We are going full American-style comfort here with heavy cream, butter, and parmesan. It is rich, white, and coats the penne inside and out.
Whisk the sauce constantly to prevent the cheese from clumping at the bottom of the pan. A dash of nutmeg is the secret ingredient that makes the cheese flavor pop.
This is my guilty pleasure meal. Sometimes you just need a bowl of cheese and carbs to fix a bad day.
14. Penne with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Earthiness meets creaminess in this woodland-inspired dish. Browning the mushrooms is crucial to getting a deep, savory flavor profile.
Cook the mushrooms in batches so they sear rather than steam. Fresh thyme leaves stripped right into the sauce add a lovely herbal note.
Steakhouse vibes at home are easy with this dish. It feels sophisticated and robust.
15. Penne with Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
This is the whole package: protein, veggie, and starch all in one creamy bowl. It is a family favorite that gets veggies into the kids.
Boil the broccoli florets in the pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking to save a pot. Grilled or pan-seared chicken strips added on top make it a full meal.
Picky eaters usually give this a pass because, well, Alfredo sauce. It is a weeknight win.
16. Penne Gorgonzola
If you love bold flavors, this blue cheese sauce is going to rock your world. It is tangy, sharp, and incredibly rich.
Melt the gorgonzola slowly into heavy cream and top with toasted walnuts for a crunch. The sauce clings to the ridges of the penne beautifully.
I crave this when I want something with a bit of funk. It pairs perfectly with a glass of bold red wine.
17. Penne with Ham and Peas in Cream Sauce
This dish has a lovely retro vibe that reminds me of cozy diners. The salty ham cuts through the sweet peas and rich cream sauce.
Dice the ham into small cubes so you get a bit in every bite. Frozen peas work perfectly here; just toss them in at the end to warm through.
Leftover holiday ham finds its higher purpose in this recipe. It is quick, salty, and sweet.
Vegan & Veggie Options
18. Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto
Traditional pesto uses pine nuts, but walnuts give it a heartier, earthier flavor that matches the mushrooms. It is a texture lover's dream.
Toast the walnuts before blending to unlock their essential oils and flavor. Sauté the mushrooms until they are dark brown and meaty.
Meatless Mondays are a breeze with this one. It is filling enough that you won't miss the meat at all.
19. Creamy Avocado Pasta
Avocados make an incredibly creamy sauce without a drop of dairy. It is nature's butter, blended up with garlic and herbs.
Use very ripe avocados and plenty of lemon juice to prevent the sauce from turning brown. Serve it immediately because this sauce doesn't like to sit around.
Summer lunches just got a major upgrade. It is vibrant green and full of healthy fats.
20. Lightened-Up Sundried Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta
This is a flavor bomb that hits you with savory, sweet, and herbal notes all at once. Sun-dried tomatoes pack an intense punch that standard tomatoes just can't match.
Use the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to loosen the pesto; it is packed with flavor. Swap out heavy nuts for sunflower seeds if you want a lighter crunch.
I bring this to picnics because it tastes amazing cold. It is robust and colorful.
21. Creamy Vegan Garlic Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
You can achieve luscious creaminess using cashews or a simple flour roux and plant milk. Roasted tomatoes burst in your mouth, adding sweetness to the savory garlic sauce.
Roast the tomatoes until they are shriveled and caramelized for maximum flavor. Use plenty of fresh garlic, not the jarred stuff, for the best bite.
My vegan friends always request this when they come over for dinner. It is satisfying and rich.
22. Spicy Red Pasta with Lentils
Red lentils dissolve as they cook, naturally thickening the tomato sauce and adding a boost of protein. It is a hearty plant-based ragu.
Rinse the lentils well and let them simmer in the marinara until they are tender. Add chili flakes to wake up the earthy lentil flavor.
Post-workout meals don't have to be boring chicken and rice. This is packed with protein and fiber.
23. Penne alla Norma
This Sicilian classic is a masterpiece of eggplant, tomato, and salted ricotta. It is savory, salty, and totally satisfying.
Fry the eggplant cubes until they are golden brown so they don't turn into a soggy mess. If you can find Ricotta Salata, use it; if not, feta is a decent substitute.
Travel memories of Sicily come flooding back with every bite. It is simple peasant food at its finest.
24. Penne with Roasted Eggplant and Tomato
If frying feels like too much work, roasting the veggies is the way to go. The oven caramelizes the eggplant and tomatoes, deepening their flavor.
Toss the cubed veggies in olive oil and herbs and roast until soft. Mix them directly into the hot pasta with a splash of pasta water.
Batch cooking this on Sunday sets you up for the week. It reheats beautifully.
25. Penne with Cauliflower Alfredo (Vegan)
This is the ultimate hidden veggie trick. Boiled cauliflower blends into a silky, white sauce that looks exactly like Alfredo.
Blend the soft cauliflower with garlic, nutritional yeast, and almond milk until smooth. It coats the pasta perfectly and feels indulgent.
Tricking my family into eating a head of cauliflower has never been easier. They have no idea it is healthy.
26. Penne with Butternut Squash and Sage
Fall flavors shine in this orange-hued pasta. The sweet squash pairs beautifully with earthy, fried sage leaves.
Roast the squash until tender and blend half of it into a sauce, keeping the rest cubed for texture. Frying the sage leaves in butter (or oil) makes them crispy like chips.
Autumn dinner parties call for this dish. It is elegant and cozy.
27. Penne with Spinach and White Beans
Tuscan vibes abound with this simple bean and green combo. Cannellini beans add creaminess and protein to a light garlic oil sauce.
Mash some of the beans into the oil to create a thicker sauce that clings to the penne. Lemon zest brightens up the earthy flavors.
Budget meals don't get better than this. It is cheap, healthy, and fast.
One-Pot (Minimal Dishes, Maximum Flavor)
28. No-Boil Baked Penne with Meatballs
The oven does all the heavy lifting here. You put raw pasta, sauce, water, and meatballs in a dish and bake it.
Make sure you have enough liquid to cover the pasta so it hydrates properly. Cover it tightly with foil to steam the noodles as they bake.
Lazy Sundays were made for this recipe. You get a bubbly casserole with practically zero effort.
29. 1-Pot Vegan Pasta
The starch from the pasta releases into the cooking liquid, creating a naturally creamy sauce without any dairy. It is magic in a pot.
Stir frequently to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Use a flavorful broth to infuse the noodles with taste from the inside out.
Camping meals just got an upgrade. This is easy to make on a single burner.
30. One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Spice up your life with this blackened chicken pasta. The cream sauce cools down the Cajun heat, creating a perfect balance.
Sear the chicken in the pot first to build a fond (those brown bits) on the bottom, then deglaze with broth. Cooking the pasta in that flavorful liquid is a game changer.
When I crave a restaurant-style pasta, this is the copycat recipe I use. It is bold and spicy.
31. One Pot Pasta (Tomato Basil)
This is the viral trend that actually works. Throw tomatoes, basil, onion, garlic, and pasta into a pot with water and boil.
Keep the lid off and let the water evaporate to create a concentrated sauce. It takes about 9 minutes and is shockingly good.
I was a skeptic until I tried it. Now it is my emergency "I have no energy" dinner.
32. One-Pot Penne Bolognese
Usually, Bolognese takes hours and multiple pots, but this version streamlines the process. You brown the meat and simmer the pasta right in the ragu.
Use a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor profile. Finish with a splash of milk or cream to tenderize the meat.
Comfort in a bowl doesn't have to take all day. This satisfies the craving in a fraction of the time.
33. One-Pot Penne with Sausage and Spinach
This is a complete meal with carbs, protein, and greens in a single skillet. The sausage spices flavor the entire dish.
Remove the sausage casing and crumble it as it cooks. Add the spinach in batches at the end until it wilts down.
Weeknight rotation needs this recipe. It is reliable and delicious.
34. One-Pot Penne Primavera
Load up on fresh veggies with this light and colorful pasta. The key is adding vegetables at different times so they don't turn to mush.
Add hard veggies like carrots early and softer ones like zucchini or peas later. A splash of cream and parmesan ties it all together.
Spring cleaning the fridge has never tasted so good. It uses up all those odds and ends.
35. One-Pot Penne with Mushrooms and Thyme
Earthy mushrooms and woody thyme create a cozy, savory sauce. The pasta absorbs the umami flavor of the mushrooms.
Sauté the mushrooms well before adding the liquid to deepen the flavor. A splash of soy sauce can boost the savory notes.
Cozy nights in require this dish. It tastes like you spent hours cooking, but cleanup is a breeze.
Fresh & Seasonal Favorites
36. Sun Gold Penne Pasta
When those sweet little yellow tomatoes hit the farmers market, you have to make this. They are like candy and create a golden, sweet sauce.
Cook the tomatoes until they burst and release their juices. Keep the seasoning simple, just garlic, basil, and salt—to let the tomatoes shine.
Garden harvests are the best time of year. This dish celebrates the produce perfectly.
37. Vegetable and Edamame Pasta with Basil Cream Sauce
This is green on green on green. Edamame adds a nice chew and protein boost to the pasta.
Puree basil, garlic, and a little cream (or avocado) for the vibrant sauce. Toss with blanched asparagus or snap peas for crunch.
Healthyish resets are easier when the food looks this good. It is vibrant and energizing.
38. 30-Minute Pesto Gluten-Free Penne Pasta Salad
Gluten-free pasta can be tricky, but penne holds up well in a cold salad. Pesto coats the ridges perfectly.
Rinse the GF pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the texture from getting gummy. Add plenty of veggies for crunch.
BBQ sides need to be robust. This one holds up well on a buffet table.
39. Creamy Vegan White Pasta with Summer Vegetables
Summer squash, corn, and tomatoes are the stars here. A light, dairy-free white sauce brings them together.
Sauté the fresh corn just enough to warm it but keep the snap. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
Farmers market inspiration strikes every time I make this. It tastes like July.
40. Penne with Zucchini and Lemon
This is a simple Roman-style pasta that is incredibly refreshing. The zucchini breaks down into a creamy sauce.
Grate the zucchini and sauté it until it melts. Fresh lemon juice and zest add the necessary acid to cut the sweetness.
Hot summer nights call for light meals. This fills you up without weighing you down.
41. Penne with Roasted Red Peppers
Jarred roasted peppers are a pantry hero. Blend them up into a smoky, sweet sauce that clings to the penne.
Add a little cream or goat cheese to the blended peppers for richness. Smoked paprika enhances the roasted flavor.
Pantry raids result in the best discoveries. This sauce is vibrant red and packed with flavor.
42. Penne with Tomato Basil Mozzarella
It is the colors of the Italian flag in a bowl. Simple, fresh, and always delicious.
Use high-quality olive oil as a finishing garnish. Tear the basil by hand to prevent it from bruising and turning black.
This is a staple in my house. It is foolproof and universally loved.
43. Penne with Asparagus and Parmesan
When asparagus season hits, this is the first thing I make. The nutty parmesan complements the grassy asparagus perfectly.
Cut the asparagus on a bias into bite-sized pieces. Save the woody ends to make a quick vegetable stock for the pasta water.
Brunch pasta is a thing, and this is it. It goes great with a mimosa.
44. Penne with Corn, Tomatoes, and Basil
Late summer in a bowl. Raw tomato sauce warmed only by the hot pasta keeps the flavors fresh.
Cut the corn fresh off the cob; don't use canned here. Marinate the tomatoes in garlic and oil while the pasta cooks.
August staples are all about minimal cooking. This recipe respects the heat.
Bold & Hearty
45. Penne all’Amatriciana
The Romans know how to do pasta. This sauce is rich with tomato, pecorino cheese, and cured pork cheek (guanciale).
If you can't find guanciale, thick-cut pancetta or bacon is a decent substitute. The fat renders out to flavor the spicy tomato sauce.
Savory cravings are satisfied instantly with this. It is salty, spicy, and rich.
46. Penne with Spicy Sausage and Tomato
This is a rustic, hearty dish that brings the heat. Breaking the sausage into rough chunks gives it a great texture.
Use hot Italian sausage and add extra chili flakes if you are brave. A dollop of ricotta on top cools it down nicely.
Warming up winter is easy with a bowl of this. It has a slow burn that is delightful.
47. Penne with Pancetta and Peas
Salt and sweet balance each other perfectly here. The crispy pancetta bits are little treasures hidden in the pasta.
Render the pancetta until it is crispy, then remove it so it stays crunchy for the topping. The peas add a pop of color and sweetness.
Kids usually love the peas in this dish. It is a simple way to get them to eat something green.
48. Penne with Beef Ragu
This is Sunday gravy territory. Slow-cooked beef that falls apart into a rich tomato sauce.
Use a chuck roast and let it simmer for hours until it shreds easily. Penne is sturdy enough to hold up to the heavy meat sauce.
Freezing this sauce is a great idea. Future you will be so happy to have a homemade ragu ready to go.
49. Penne with Chili Crisp and Garlic
Fusion flavors make this pasta exciting. Chili crisp adds texture, heat, and savory notes that are addictive.
Slice the garlic into thin chips and fry them until golden. Toss the pasta with the chili oil and top with the crispy garlic.
Late-night snacks don't get better than this. It is spicy, crunchy, and savory.
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