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Delicious Penne Pasta Recipes for Every Occasion

Penne pasta is a favorite around the world for its unique shape. It looks like a quill or pen and has a hollow center. This shape is great for holding onto sauces like meat ragùs and creamy tomato sauces, especially Penne alla Vodka.

Penne is perfect for all seasons and events. It’s great in warm winter casseroles and cool summer salads. Its slim tube shape and pointed ends add elegance to any dish.

Key Takeaways

  • Penne pasta is a classic, recognizable pasta shape with a distinct “quill” or “pen” design.
  • Its hollow center and ridged exterior make penne perfect for capturing a wide variety of sauces and toppings.
  • Penne pasta is a versatile ingredient that shines in both hearty, comfort-food dishes and light, refreshing summer meals.
  • The unique shape and texture of penne pasta elevate any pasta dish with a touch of elegance.
  • Penne’s popularity and adaptability make it a go-to choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

The Versatility of Penne Pasta

Penne pasta is a versatile short-cut that pairs well with many sauces and ingredients. Its hollow center and ridged exterior are perfect for holding onto meat ragùs and creamy tomato sauces. It’s great for both warm, comforting dishes and cool summer salads.

Penne is the second most popular pasta shape, after spaghetti. It comes in two types: penne rigate and penne lisce. Made with durum wheat flour and water, it cooks in 10-12 minutes. It’s often served with meat ragùs and chunky tomato sauces.

Planning an easy meal or a fancy dinner, penne adds elegance to any dish. You can swap it with Ziti, Rigatoni, or Tortiglioni in recipes. This article features 11 different penne pasta recipes, showing its versatility.

From quick dishes under 10 minutes to summer pasta salads, penne adapts to many flavors. Whether you want a warm baked penne casserole or a cool salad, penne is a versatile choice.

Classic Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka is a beloved Italian-American dish. It’s creamy and indulgent, with al dente penne pasta in a rich vodka-infused pink sauce. Crispy prosciutto adds a meaty touch, and red pepper flakes add a subtle kick.

This dish is easy to make and always impresses guests. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights or dinner parties.

The Origins of Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla vodka started in the early 1980s in Italy. It quickly became a favorite, appearing on menus everywhere. Today, it’s loved for its mix of savory, spicy, and rich flavors.

For the best penne alla vodka, use top-quality ingredients. You’ll need 300 grams of penne rigate, two small cans of Italian peeled tomatoes, 200 grams of cooking cream, and 100 milliliters of vodka. Add 200 grams of pancetta or bacon for a meaty flavor, and 3 tablespoons of Pecorino Romano cheese for a salty finish.

Let the sauce thicken quickly for that creamy texture. A bit of pasta water helps bind the sauce for a smooth consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or more Pecorino Romano, for a luxurious Italian-American meal.

“Penne alla vodka is a true classic that never goes out of style. The rich, creamy sauce and the pops of flavor from the prosciutto and red pepper flakes make it an absolute must-try for any pasta lover.”

Penne with Chickpeas, Tomatoes, and Spinach

When I’m craving a quick, flavorful, and nutrient-packed pasta dish, I turn to this vibrant penne recipe. It features chickpeas, tomatoes, and fresh spinach. These ingredients create a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

The dish’s success comes from the perfect blend of garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese. They add a punch of flavor to the fresh tomatoes, chickpeas, and baby spinach. The penne pasta provides a hearty base. Chickpeas add protein and fiber, keeping me feeling satisfied.

This recipe is versatile. It pairs well with saucy proteins like shrimp scampi or creamy garlic chicken. It’s great for many occasions. Leftovers can be turned into a delicious cold pasta salad with pesto, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

IngredientQuantity
Penne pasta8 ounces
Chickpeas, drained and rinsed2 cans (15 ounces each)
Cherry tomatoes, halved1 cup
Baby spinach5 ounces
Garlic, minced3 cloves
Olive oil2 tablespoons
Red pepper flakes (optional)1/4 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan cheese1/4 cup

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It takes only 40 minutes to cook, including 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it has 347 calories per serving, making it a nutritious choice.

“This penne dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.”

If you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta dish or want to try new flavors, this penne with chickpeas, tomatoes, and spinach is perfect. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious combination of these wholesome ingredients.

Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes

Penne pasta is great with pesto’s vibrant flavors. For a quick meal, I mix penne with basil pesto and roasted cherry tomatoes. It’s ready in 20 minutes and tastes like summer.

To make this Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes, I roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. They release juices, making a tasty sauce for the penne. Then, I add pesto, Parmesan cheese, and the tomatoes.

This recipe is easy to change up. You can add chicken or shrimp, or try different pesto flavors like spinach or arugula. It’s great warm or as a cold pasta salad. Leftovers stay good in the fridge for 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Looking for a quick dinner or a tasty pasta salad for a summer event? This Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes is perfect. With a few ingredients and little work, you can enjoy a top-notch dish at home.

“This Pesto Penne with Cherry Tomatoes recipe is an absolute lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s so quick and easy to make, yet the flavors are out of this world!”

Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

A Spicy, Creamy Southern Delight

Embark on a flavorful journey with Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta. This dish combines spice, creaminess, and the comfort of penne pasta. With simple ingredients, you can make a meal like a restaurant at home.

The secret to this Cajun dish is the seasoned chicken. We coat the chicken breasts with spices like smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper. Then, we sauté it to perfection, creating a base for the creamy sauce.

While the chicken cooks, we sauté bell peppers and onions. This adds fresh flavors to the dish. Then, we mix in a rich cream cheese sauce with chicken broth and the chicken’s spices. This creates a perfect balance of heat and creaminess with the penne pasta.

This Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta is great for any meal. Serve it with garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, or shrimp for more flavor. This recipe lets you get creative!

“This Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta is a flavor explosion in my mouth! The perfect balance of spice and creaminess, with the hearty penne pasta as the star. It’s quickly become a family favorite in our household.”

So, grab your apron and dive into the spicy, creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta. Your taste buds will love it!

Beef and Spinach Penne Skillet

If you’re looking for a comforting pasta dish, try the Beef and Spinach Penne Skillet. It’s a weeknight winner with tender penne pasta, flavorful ground beef, and spinach in a creamy tomato sauce.

The sauce is rich and savory. Ground beef cooks with tomato puree, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Then, fresh spinach adds color and vitamins. Finally, mozzarella cheese makes the sauce creamy.

This recipe is versatile. You can swap the ground beef with chicken or turkey for a leaner choice. It’s a meal that pleases everyone, whether you want a classic comfort food or a healthier pasta dish.

IngredientAmount
Penne pasta8 oz.
Ground beef1 lb.
Onion, diced1/2 cup
Tomato puree1 (15 oz.) can
Beef broth2 cups
Worcestershire sauce2 tbsp.
Spinach, chopped2 cups
Mozzarella cheese, shredded1 1/2 cups

This dish is quick to make, perfect for busy nights. It’s full of comforting flavors and healthy ingredients. Serve it with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

“This recipe is a true weeknight wonder, combining tender penne pasta, flavorful ground beef, and nutrient-rich spinach in a creamy tomato-based sauce.”

Try the Beef and Spinach Penne Skillet tonight. It’s easy to make and offers a comforting, nutritious pasta meal any day of the week.

Caprese Penne Pasta Salad

Summertime is the perfect season for a fresh, vibrant Caprese salad. Why not elevate it with the delightful texture of penne pasta? This Caprese Penne Pasta Salad combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. It’s all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing.

Preparing this pasta salad is easy. Start by cooking the penne as the package says, then cool it down with cold water. While the pasta cooks, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and tear the basil into small pieces. Mix these with the cooked penne, mozzarella, and a dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

This salad is vibrant and full of flavor, great for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer dinner. The flavors improve as it sits in the fridge, making it perfect for making ahead. Serve it chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the refreshing mix of penne, Caprese, and lemon.

IngredientQuantity
Whole wheat penne pasta1/2 box
Tomato sauce1 cup
Sour cream1/4 cup
Parmesan cheese1/2 cup
Fresh mozzarella1 pint cherry tomatoes
Fresh basil leaves1 bunch

To enhance your Caprese Penne Pasta Salad, try these tips:

  • Use colorful heirloom tomatoes for a stunning look.
  • Add a splash of balsamic glaze or lemon zest for extra flavor.
  • For a bigger meal, top it with grilled chicken or shrimp.

This Caprese Penne Pasta Salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing, wholesome meal. It offers a great balance of penne, Caprese, and lemon in every bite.

“This Caprese Penne Pasta Salad is a delightful summertime treat! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant, and it’s the perfect make-ahead dish for any gathering.” – Sarah, Food Blogger

Penne with Pepperoni and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Craving a comforting and flavorful pasta dish? This penne pasta recipe is perfect for you. It combines savory pepperoni and sun-dried tomatoes. The spicy kick of pepperoni meets the rich, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes. This mix will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

This recipe is versatile. It’s great for dinner parties or quick weeknight meals. It takes only 40 minutes to make, even on busy days.

Nutrition FactsValue
Calories641 kcal
Saturated FatNot Specified
CholesterolNot Specified
SodiumNot Specified
Potassium1626 mg
CarbohydratesNot Specified
ProteinNot Specified
Vitamin ANot Specified
Vitamin C13.7 mg
CalciumNot Specified

This creamy penne dish is a hit with home cooks, getting a 4.74 out of 5 rating from 1,720 votes. Its delicious taste and easy prep make it a favorite. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers.

Sun-dried tomatoes are a key ingredient in this dish. They add a sweet and chewy flavor that pairs well with spicy pepperoni. The creamy sauce, made with milk and chicken or vegetable broth, brings everything together for a satisfying taste.

If you’re looking for a comforting pasta dish or want to try something new, this penne with pepperoni and sun-dried tomatoes is a great choice. Try it and enjoy the mix of flavors!

Penne with Mushroom and White Wine Sauce

Start a tasty journey with this penne pasta dish. It has a creamy mushroom white wine sauce. Sautéed mushrooms, crisp white wine, and rich heavy cream make a decadent meal. It’s great for any event, from weeknight dinners to date nights.

I begin by sautéing different mushrooms like button, baby bella, and oyster until they’re golden brown. Then, I add dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, for depth. Heavy cream makes the sauce velvety.

For more flavor, I mix in shredded chicken and capers. These add to the mushrooms’ earthiness. The result is a creamy sauce that coats the Barilla Pronto Penne pasta. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish.

IngredientAmount
Penne pasta8 oz
Mixed mushrooms (such as button, baby bella, and oyster)1 lb
Butter2 Tbsp
Dry white wine1/2 cup
Heavy cream1/2 cup
Cooked chicken, shredded1 cup
Capers2 Tbsp
Salt and pepperTo taste

This dish is ready in 30 minutes, ideal for a quick weeknight meal. Serve it with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete dinner. Enjoy!

“The creamy mushroom and white wine sauce is the perfect complement to the tender penne pasta and juicy chicken. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress.” – Food Critic, The Culinary Times

Lemon Penne with Ham and Basil

A Bright, Herb-Packed Pasta

Take your pasta to the next level with Lemon Penne with Ham and Basil. The fresh lemon juice brings a zesty brightness that goes well with the savory ham and basil. It’s a twist on classic mac and cheese, perfect for any event.

The creamy Parmesan sauce is the star of this dish. It’s made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This sauce coats the penne pasta, making every bite rich and velvety.

For added texture and protein, I add sautéed ham and fresh basil leaves. These ingredients blend well, creating a dish that’s both tasty and satisfying. Serve it with a crisp salad or roasted veggies for a full meal.

This Lemon Penne with Ham and Basil is great for any weeknight or special dinner. It’s quick to make, ready in just 30 minutes. Enjoy!

IngredientAmount
Penne pasta12 ounces
Cubed ham1 cup
Heavy cream1 cup
Grated Parmesan1/2 cup
Lemon juice2 tablespoons
Lemon zest1 tablespoon
Fresh basil leaves1/2 cup, chopped
Salt and black pepperTo taste

For a quick and easy dinner, try Lemon Penne with Ham and Basil. Its bright citrus and savory ham flavors are sure to delight everyone at the table.

Baked Penne Casserole with Chicken and Vegetables

Get ready to enjoy a tasty baked penne casserole full of tender chicken, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes. It’s a hit with families and easy to make your own way. You can add more veggies like spinach or zucchini. Or, try using ground sausage for a meatless version.

For pasta lovers, feel free to use other shapes like spiral or elbow macaroni. They all work great in this cozy casserole.

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories343 kcal
Carbohydrates39.9 g
Protein27.4 g
Fat8.8 g
Saturated Fat4.4 g
Cholesterol56.8 mg
Sodium633.9 mg
Fiber2.6 g
Sugar6.2 g

To make this amazing baked penne casserole, you’ll need a few things:

  • Penne pasta
  • Diced chicken
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato paste
  • Mozzarella and Romano cheeses
  • Assorted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms

Just sauté the chicken and veggies, mix with pasta and sauce, and bake until it’s hot and bubbly. This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a versatile recipe you can customize to your taste.

“This baked penne casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and melty cheese makes it an absolute delight.”

Penne with Beef and Bacon

This Penne with Beef and Bacon is a go-to for comfort. It uses canned condensed tomato soup for a quick and tasty meal. The mix of sautéed ground beef and crispy bacon makes it hearty. The tomato soup adds a creamy, flavorful sauce.

For more flavor, try sautéing onions with the beef and serve with barbecue sauce. The blend of beef, bacon, and tomato soup is perfect for any busy night or big gathering.

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories570kcal
Carbohydrates70g
Protein17g
Fat23g
Saturated Fat8g
Cholesterol42mg
Sodium231mg
Potassium374mg
Fiber4g
Sugar4g
Vitamin A495IU
Vitamin C15.5mg
Calcium40mg
Iron1.8mg

This recipe makes 4 servings, with each serving having 750 calories. It has 37g of total fat and 15g of saturated fat. It also has 130mg of cholesterol and 1420mg of sodium.

This penne dish is a great source of protein, with 44g per serving. It also has 230mg of potassium and 56g of carbohydrates.

“This penne dish is a true comfort food classic. The combination of savory beef, crispy bacon, and creamy tomato sauce is simply irresistible.”

Creamy Spinach and Chicken Penne

As a busy working mom, I always look for quick and tasty pasta dishes for my family. That’s why I’m excited to share this Creamy Spinach and Chicken Penne recipe with you. It’s a comforting one-pan meal that takes only 30 minutes to make. It has tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce that everyone will love.

The creamy mushroom sauce is the star of this dish. I start by sautéing onion and garlic in olive oil. Then, I add chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The penne pasta cooks in the sauce, soaking up all the deliciousness.

Once the pasta is al dente, I add shredded chicken and baby spinach leaves. The spinach wilts down, creating a luscious, nutrient-rich sauce. Finally, I top it with shredded mozzarella cheese for a melty, cheesy finish.

This Creamy Spinach and Chicken Penne is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories618
Total Fat25g
Cholesterol99mg
Sodium461.4mg
Total Carbohydrates64.9g
Protein31.8g

This recipe makes 4-6 servings and can be frozen or refrigerated for later. You can freeze the assembled pasta for 1-2 months, or the sauce for 2-3 months without losing flavor. Just don’t overcook the chicken, and feel free to use other pasta shapes like orecchiette, fusilli, or rigatoni.

This Creamy Spinach and Chicken Penne is perfect for a comforting dinner or feeding a crowd. Its rich sauce, tender chicken, and spinach make it a hit with the whole family. Try it out and enjoy!

Shrimp Penne with Marinara and Alfredo Sauces

A Decadent Seafood Pasta Mashup

Get ready for a luxurious penne pasta dish. It combines the tangy marinara sauce with the creamy Alfredo sauce, all with tender shrimp. Making it easy with jarred Alfredo sauce, or go all out with homemade for a special touch.

This mix of sauces makes a rich, Rosa-style sauce that covers every penne noodle. The shrimp adds a seafood twist. It’s an impressive, easy dish that will impress your guests, perfect for any occasion.

IngredientQuantity
Penne pasta1 (16 oz) box
Unsalted butter1/4 cup
Extra virgin olive oil2 tablespoons
Yellow onion, diced1
Red bell pepper, diced1
Portobello mushrooms, sliced1 (8 oz) package
Garlic, minced6 cloves
Medium/large shrimp, peeled and deveined1 pound
Alfredo sauce1 (15 oz) jar
Grated Romano cheese1/2 cup
Heavy cream1/2 cup
Cayenne pepper, salt, and pepperTo taste
Chopped parsley for garnishAs needed

This recipe is great for a family dinner or a party with friends. It uses Bertolli® Organic Fire Roasted Garlic Marinara Sauce and Bertolli® Organic Creamy Alfredo Sauce for a tasty Rosa-style sauce. Add fresh shrimp, veggies, and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dinner to impress? This Shrimp Penne with Marinara and Alfredo is perfect. Serve it with a salad and crusty bread for a complete meal in no time.

“This decadent penne pasta dish is a true flavor explosion, with the bright, tangy marinara sauce perfectly complementing the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. The addition of tender shrimp takes it to the next level of indulgence.”

Barbecue Pork Penne Skillet

I’m always searching for quick and tasty meals for my busy home. The Barbecue Pork Penne Skillet recipe from Taste of Home is perfect. It’s a 25-minute meal that combines the flavors of barbecued pork with penne pasta and other tasty ingredients.

This recipe uses pre-cooked barbecued shredded pork, which saves a lot of time. The pork, penne, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese come together to make a flavorful pasta dish. It’s sure to please everyone in the family.

For a deeper flavor, you can make your own Carolina-style barbecue pork. Whether you use store-bought or homemade pork, the result is a delicious, easy meal for busy nights. Plus, you can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for later. This makes the Barbecue Pork Penne Skillet a true time-saver in the kitchen.

FAQ

What is penne pasta?

Penne pasta is a popular pasta shape known for its unique “quill” or “pen” shape. It has a hollow center and ridged exterior. This makes it great for holding onto sauces like meat ragùs or creamy tomato sauces.

How is penne pasta versatile?

Penne pasta is versatile and can be paired with many sauces and ingredients. Its design captures sauces well, making it perfect for hearty dishes or refreshing salads. It adapts to different seasons and occasions.

What is Penne alla Vodka?

Penne alla Vodka is a creamy Italian-American dish with a pink sauce. It features crispy prosciutto and a hint of red pepper flakes for spice. This dish is easy to make and always impresses guests.

How can penne be paired with chickpeas, tomatoes, and spinach?

This penne dish is colorful and pairs well with saucy proteins like shrimp or chicken. The garlic and red pepper flakes enhance the flavors of chickpeas, tomatoes, and spinach. Leftovers can be turned into a tasty cold pasta salad.

What are some ways to prepare pesto penne?

Pesto is a classic match for penne pasta. Mastering traditional basil pesto opens doors to variations like spinach or arugula pesto. For a quick meal, combine store-bought pesto with penne, cherry tomatoes, and heavy cream.

How can penne be prepared in a Cajun-style sauce?

This penne dish features spice-rubbed chicken in a creamy Cajun sauce with peppers and onions. You can substitute shrimp or add veggies to make it your own. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

What ingredients make a hearty beef and spinach penne skillet?

This penne dish is a comforting meal with ground beef, tomato sauce, and spinach. You can use ground chicken or turkey for a different twist. It’s easy and loved by the family.

How can penne be used to make a refreshing Caprese-inspired pasta salad?

Combine fresh Caprese salad ingredients with penne for a summer pasta salad. The mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with lemon juice makes it refreshing. It’s perfect for picnics and gets better with time.

How can pepperoni be used in a penne pasta dish?

Pepperoni adds spice and flavor to this comforting penne dish with sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty.

What ingredients make a creamy penne pasta with mushrooms and white wine?

This penne dish has a creamy sauce with sautéed mushrooms and white wine. Add leftover chicken and capers for depth. Use a crisp white wine like pinot grigio to complement the flavors.

How can lemon and basil be used to brighten up a penne pasta dish?

Lemon juice and fresh basil brighten up this penne dish with ham and basil. It’s a light, summery pasta that’s great any time of year. Use any short-cut pasta you like in this recipe.

What ingredients make a comforting baked penne casserole?

This cheesy penne casserole is a family favorite with chicken, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Add more veggies or use ground sausage for a vegetarian option. Short pasta shapes like spiral or elbow macaroni work well too.

How can canned tomato soup be used to make a quick and easy penne pasta dish?

Canned tomato soup makes this beefy, cheesy penne pasta quick and easy. Sautéed ground beef and crispy bacon add heartiness. For more flavor, sauté onions with the beef and serve with barbecue sauce.

What makes a creamy, comforting penne pasta dish with chicken and spinach?

This dish combines tender chicken, spinach, and a rich mushroom sauce in 30 minutes. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors. Tear the spinach leaves for an easy prep.

How can penne be used to create a decadent shrimp pasta dish?

This decadent penne dish blends marinara and Alfredo sauces with tender shrimp. Using jarred Alfredo sauce makes it easy, but homemade Alfredo is better for special occasions. It’s an impressive, easy-to-make pasta dish.

What makes a quick and easy penne pasta skillet with barbecue pork?

This penne skillet uses refrigerated barbecue pork for a quick meal. It combines tangy pork with tomatoes and cheddar cheese. For more flavor, make your own Carolina-style barbecue pork.

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