Penne pasta recipes are the ultimate solution when you crave a comforting meal without sacrificing convenience. These 23 effortless yet versatile recipes can be paired with various sauces and proteins, making them perfect for quick meals or family gatherings. Pasta’s simplicity is its greatest strength, ensuring a crowd-pleaser every time.
Whether you’re in the mood for something simple to curb your hunger or want to impress your loved ones with a more elaborate dish, penne noodles should be at the forefront of your culinary adventures! Their adaptability extends beyond pasta dishes, as they also excel in casseroles and soups. For a refreshing twist, consider an Italian Pasta Salad featuring your trusty penne noodles.
If you’re torn between serving burgers or pasta to your kids, why not try a One Pot Cheeseburger Pasta that will satisfy everyone’s cravings? Alternatively, add some substance to your savory soup with Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Soup. With pasta being notoriously difficult to mess up, it’s no wonder it remains a staple in many kitchens. So go ahead and get creative with penne pasta – you’re bound to discover a few recipes that become new favorites!
And who knows, you might just stumble upon the perfect solution for your next family dinner.
Chicken Penne Pasta With Parmesan Cream Sauce
The penne pasta’s textured ridges provide the perfect canvas for the rich Parmesan cream sauce to coat the noodles evenly. Meanwhile, the diced chicken adds a boost of protein, seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. To take it to the next level, consider adding some black pepper, thyme, or parsley, and don’t be shy with the Parmesan – the more, the merrier! This hearty dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Penne Arrabbiata
For those who crave bold flavors, adding arrabbiata sauce to your penne dinner can be a game-changer. And the best part? You can easily customize the heat level to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re a spice aficionado or prefer a milder flavor, this tomato-based sauce is sure to please when paired with penne and topped off with melted cheese and fragrant basil leaves.
Southwest Chicken Alfredo
This mouthwatering penne pasta dish masterfully combines the richness of Italy with the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine. The sweet and savory twist comes from honey-glazed chicken, which adds depth to the dish. The unique blend of Southwest seasonings provides a delightful kick that elevates the meal. To take it to the next level, infuse the creamy sauce with some of these seasonings for an unforgettable taste experience.
Don’t forget to mop up every last bit of sauce with a crispy garlic bread. And remember, perfectly cooked pasta is key – here are our expert tips to ensure you get it just right:
Gigi Hadid’s Viral Pasta
The TikTok phenomenon that is this pasta recipe has captured the hearts of many fans. While some may be familiar with the original Spicy Vodka Pasta, this variation offers a twist that’s uniquely Gigi’s own creation. One notable difference is the absence of vodka, which in no way diminishes its flavor profile. In fact, it’s just as delicious as you’ve come to expect from social media.
The use of penne pasta instead of shell pasta adds an extra layer of versatility, allowing you to make good use of what’s already in your pantry.
Baked Penne Pasta with Ricotta
When combining penne pasta with ricotta cheese, a subtle yet impressive transformation occurs. The creamy texture infused by the ricotta cheese brings a luxurious quality to the dish, allowing the natural flavors of the pasta to take center stage. Moreover, the mild cheesiness introduced by the ricotta enhances the overall taste experience. What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and preferences.
By adding some sautéed vegetables or cooked meat, you can create a completely new culinary experience that still honors the original dish’s essence.
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
While it’s undeniable that philly cheesesteak can be a delight, it’s not always easy to convince your entire household of its appeal as a daily meal option. A creative solution lies in transforming this classic sandwich into a pasta dish, thereby preserving the beloved flavors while presenting them in a novel format.
The end result is an effortless weeknight dinner that will satisfy the whole family’s appetite, featuring the harmonious union of ground beef, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and provolone all mixed with penne pasta.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Penne pasta’s absorbent nature makes it an ideal pairing for bold flavors. As the protein and sauce meld together, the pasta soaks up the rich tastes, elevating the dish to new heights. The cajun seasoning mix in this recipe serves as a masterful coating for tender shrimp, its perfect balance of spice and saltiness complementing the overall flavor profile.
To let these bold flavors shine, a light and simple side of vegetables provides a delightful contrast, making this a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Penne pasta recipes are often a go-to for a quick and satisfying dinner. This recipe is no exception, delivering a flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. But what really sets it apart is the wealth of tips to make it even quicker and easier! By leveraging sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, seasonings, and garlic, this dish doesn’t sacrifice taste for speed. Instead, it’s a masterclass in balancing convenience with culinary flair.
Baked Penne With Roasted Vegetables
Indulge in a flavorful and vibrant baked pasta dish that’s sure to please even the most dedicated meat-lovers. The roasted vegetable medley, featuring red bell peppers, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, and peas, adds a delightful pop of color and texture to this comforting penne pasta recipe. Whether you’re looking for a way to sneak in some extra veggies for your kids or simply want to treat yourself to a satisfying meal, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
And don’t worry about reheating – we’ve got some helpful tips to ensure your leftovers remain just as delicious!
Italian Penne Pasta Salad
When planning a picnic or barbecue, figuring out what to make with penne pasta that will remain fresh even when left out in the sun all day can be a challenge. That’s where this pasta salad comes in – its unique combination of ingredients and dressing ensures the pasta stays moist and doesn’t spoil from heat exposure. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings, as you don’t have to worry about food going bad quickly.
As the pasta boils, you can simultaneously prepare your vegetables, making this dish a quick and easy addition to your summertime social events. Its effortless preparation and ability to withstand warm temperatures make it a perfect option for potlucks and barbecues.
Tahini Pasta Stir-Fry
Ending a day with a warm bowl of soup is always satisfying. To take it to the next level, why not incorporate your favorite pasta into the mix? This recipe combines the best of both worlds – rich Italian flavors and hearty vegetables, all wrapped up in a comforting broth. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: cook your pasta right in the soup and enjoy a thickened, flavorful meal.
If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage to give your soup an extra kick.
Spicy Italian Sausage Penne And Vegetable Soup
Ending a day with a warm bowl of soup is a classic comfort move, but why not take it to the next level by incorporating pasta for added depth and satisfaction? This recipe combines the best of both worlds, blending the rich flavors of Italy with the nutrients and heartiness of vegetables and a savory broth. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: cook your pasta directly into the soup, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors.
For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes and spicy Italian sausage to give your meal a bold, spicy twist.
Chicken And Broccoli Penne Alfredo
Paring chicken and broccoli with penne alfredo is a culinary marriage that reaches new heights. The creamy sauce and tender pasta complement the savory flavors of the chicken and broccoli, creating a harmonious blend. You can either craft your own Alfredo sauce or rely on a trusted jarred version to elevate this dish. If you’re not in the mood for the chicken and broccoli combination, feel free to omit those elements and indulge in a rich plate of penne alfredo instead.
Brown Butter Sausage Penne Pasta
This delectable pasta dish boasts a stunning visual appeal, with the rich caramel hues of browned butter and vibrant green peas adding a pop of color. As you prepare your brown butter sauce, don’t forget to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this is where all the complex flavors come together in perfect harmony. Meanwhile, the Italian sausage is infused with an array of spices and seasonings, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
One Pot Cheeseburger Pasta
This culinary fusion seamlessly blends two beloved dishes into a mouthwatering meal. By merging the essence of a cheeseburger with the versatility of pasta, you’ll discover a harmonious union of flavors. The patty’s rich onion and seasoning profile, combined with juicy tomato notes and melted cheddar cheese, creates a truly satisfying experience. Feel free to add crunchy pickles for an added layer of texture and flavor, catering to your personal preferences.
Penne Rosa Pasta
Indulge in a culinary treat that’s not only quicker than ordering takeout but also packs a punch of flavor. This straightforward penne pasta recipe is a game-changer, requiring minimal ingredients most people already keep stocked in their kitchen. The best part? You can effortlessly tailor the dish to suit your dietary needs, whether you’re a vegan seeking plant-based options or craving an extra boost of protein.
With this adaptable recipe, everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as convenient as it is delicious.
Pepperoni And Olive Penne Pasta
While this straightforward pasta recipe may not boast an exhaustive list of ingredients, its versatility lies in its ability to be easily customized to suit your taste. The core version of this dish relies on the simplicity of kalamata or black olives, pepperoni, and a pinch of salt. However, feel free to take it up a notch by incorporating other tasty toppings such as sausage, crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, nutritious spinach, and fragrant basil.
Regardless of whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with additional ingredients, this pasta is guaranteed to provide a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for sharing.
Penne Alla Vodka Pasta
Penne pasta lovers rejoice! One of Italy’s most beloved dishes can now be crafted in the comfort of your own kitchen. The secret to replicating this culinary delight lies in selecting only the finest ingredients available. With the freedom to customize with your preferred protein, vegetables, and cheese, you can personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds.
Pasta Primavera
With its vibrant hues and crisp flavors, this pasta recipe shines bright during the spring and summer months. Its versatility also makes it an ideal choice for incorporating seasonal vegetables, allowing you to easily switch up ingredients based on what’s fresh and available at your local market or in your own backyard. And the best part? The dish not only looks stunning but also delivers a flavor profile that’s just as impressive as its appearance.
One Pot Cheesy Sausage Penne
While juggling a packed schedule on weeknights, it’s comforting to know that you can still deliver a satisfying meal to your loved ones. This pasta dish, with its simplicity and rich flavors, is an excellent choice for a family dinner. The addition of extra cheese takes the taste to the next level, making it a crowd-pleaser.
One Pot Chicken Taco Penne Pasta
If you’re looking for a creative twist on Taco Tuesday, why not combine two culinary favorites into one dish? This chicken taco pasta recipe is perfect for satisfying your cravings for both tacos and pasta. By incorporating diced green chiles and taco seasoning into the mix, you can achieve all the flavor of a traditional taco without needing to use shells or tortillas. The result is a unique and imaginative meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Soup
While soups are often associated with specific seasons or moods, this comforting delight can be enjoyed almost anywhere, anytime. The star of the show is undoubtedly the cheesy pasta soup, which brings a thrilling twist to your culinary repertoire. Imagine tender pasta swirled in a rich and tangy tomato-based broth infused with the warmth of chicken stock, topped off with an abundance of melted cheese that will leave you wanting more.
Maple Curry Penne
Indulge in the rich flavors of this decadent dish, surprisingly affordable considering its luxurious profile. The judicious use of curry seasonings imbues the culinary creation with a harmonious balance of savory, spicy, and subtly sweet notes. As the creamy sauce is further enhanced by the addition of maple syrup, the sweetness expertly complements the pasta’s robust flavors, crafting a truly satisfying gastronomic experience.
The bottom line
If you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy, look no further than penne pasta recipes. With their simplicity and versatility, it’s no wonder they’re a popular choice for busy households. But what really takes these meals to the next level is the variety of options available for serving them up. From classic combinations to more adventurous pairings, we’ve got 23 delicious penne pasta recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
And with their effortless preparation and adaptability to different sauces and proteins, you can’t go wrong. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or want to mix things up, our list has got you covered. Plus, be sure to check out some of our other epic pasta lists for even more inspiration!
