Quick & Easy Penne Pasta Recipes You’ll Crave

When you’re looking for a satisfying meal but don’t have a lot of time, penne pasta is the perfect solution. Its hollow tube shape holds sauces beautifully and its texture pairs well with any ingredients. That’s why penne pasta lends itself to so many quick and easy recipes you’ll want to make again and again. In this article, you’ll find 30-minute penne pasta dishes your whole family is sure to crave.

Each recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. From veggie-packed Spinach and Cherry Tomato Penne to classic Cheesy Baked Ziti swimming in cheese, these penne pastas can be on the table in just 30 minutes or less. Whether you want a cozy weeknight meal or a stress-free dinner solution, these quick recipes will become your new favorites.

You’ll discover penne pastas like:

• Quick Creamy Penne Recipe: Ready in 20 minutes
• Easy One-Pot Vegetable Penne: Easy clean up
• Chicken Penne Alfredo: No pots or pans needed
• Healthy Spinach and Cherry Tomato Penne: Perfect for packed lunches

Trying into creamy penne pasta recipes like our Quick Creamy Penne Recipe ensures a rich and satisfying meal in no time.

So when hunger strikes but time is limited, turn to these crave-worthy penne pasta recipes. With options for any dietary preference or schedule, you’re sure to find quick and easy dishes everyone in the family will love. Get cooking these 30-minute penne pastas your crew will ask for again and again.

Quick and Easy Penne Pasta Recipes

Penne pasta makes wonderful quick meals that the whole family will love. The following recipes can be on the table in 30 minutes or less. With some handy tips, you’ll be a pro at fast weeknight cooking.

One-Pot Penne Pasta Dishes

There’s no need to dirty multiple pans when you can cook everything together in one pot. One-pot meals are so convenient because they require less cleanup. Simply prepare all the ingredients in a single large pot and cook everything simultaneously. When dinnertime arrives, your meal is ready with minimal fuss.

Recipe: Easy One-Pot Vegetable Penne

This colorful pasta dish packs a variety of nutrients from the vegetables. It also comes together in a snap!

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup each: chopped bell peppers (red, orange, yellow for visual appeal), halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Splash of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step adds richness and flavor.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a full boil.
4. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to package directions, usually about 11 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. After the pasta has cooked for 8-9 minutes, stir in the chopped bell peppers. These will cook through in the last few minutes.
6. Add the fresh spinach leaves. The heat from the pot will gently wilt them.
7. In the final minute, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes. The residual heat will soften them slightly.
8. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot! Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand.

Creamy Penne Pasta

This rich and satisfying sauce only takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want the comfort of cream without much effort. Our easy creamy penne pasta recipes like the Quick Creamy Penne Recipe provide a luscious texture without the hassle.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 5 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt, then the penne pasta. Cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
3. Add the cream cheese cubes. Using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, continuously stir the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into a smooth sauce. This should take 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually stir in 1/4-1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, adding it in a slow, steady stream. Continue stirring as the water is added. The water will thin out the sauce to a pouring consistency.
5. Once the pasta is ready, drain and add it directly to the skillet. Toss everything together over medium heat for 1-2 minutes to coat the pasta.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot!

Tips for Fast Cooking

• Prep ingredients like chopping veggies ahead of time for easy assembly later in the week.
• Use pre-cut or frozen vegetables to save time on prep work.
• Cook a double batch of pasta. Leftover cooked pasta keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and is perfect for quick meals like salads or soups.

Substitutions

• Any short pasta like penne, rotini or farfalle works well in these recipes.
• For the creamy sauce, sub plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Feel free to swap vegetables based on your preferences and what’s on hand.

With these easy recipes and tips, you’ll be a pro at fast penne pasta dinners all week long. Enjoy!

Healthy Penne Pasta Recipes

Penne pasta can be part of a balanced, nutritious diet when paired with the right ingredients. This section provides some delicious recipe ideas that maximize nutrients and minimize calories.

Vegetarian Options

Our collection includes various vegetarian penne pasta recipes that are excellent ways to boost your intake of important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Meatless penne recipes are excellent ways to boost your intake of important vitamins, minerals, and fiber while cutting back on saturated fat and cholesterol.

They are also very budget-friendly options and work well for many dietary preferences or restrictions. Vegetarian pastas allow you to enjoy flavorful meals while supporting heart and digestive health.

Spinach and Cherry Tomato Penne

This simple yet intensely flavorful dish packs a powerful punch of antioxidants and essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat penne
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 5 oz fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of salt
• Grinds of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the fresh spinach a handful at a time, allowing it to wilt down before adding more. Continue stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened slightly and released their juices.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly to combine.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve hot and enjoy! This dish provides an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K as well as fiber from the spinach and tomatoes.

Ready to make the best chicken salad? Try our simple Chicken Salad Recipes today!

Gluten-Free Alternatives

Adapting Recipes with Gluten-Free Penne If you need to avoid gluten, you can still enjoy penne pasta by using gluten-free varieties made from ingredients like brown rice, quinoa, lentils or corn.

These gluten-free penne pasta recipes ensure that those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy delicious penne dishes. These alternatives may have a slightly different texture than traditional wheat pasta but can still be very tasty when prepared correctly and paired with flavorful sauces and mix-ins.

Tips for Success with Gluten-Free Pasta:

• Always check package instructions, as cooking times may vary slightly.
• Be gentle when stirring gluten-free pasta to prevent breaking strands.
• Rinse thoroughly with cold water after cooking to remove excess starch and prevent sticking.
• Gluten-free pasta textures may differ slightly but pairing with flavorful sauces helps make up for any differences in taste or bite.

Use mix-ins like vegetables, beans, lentils and whole grains in penne recipes and you can create healthy, satisfying meals that nourish your body without compromising on flavor. Experiment to discover your new favorite healthy penne pasta dishes!

Meat-Based Penne Pasta Recipes

Explore hearty chicken penne pasta recipes like Chicken Penne Alfredo, which combine tender chicken with rich sauces for a comforting meal. Penne pasta is very versatile and pairs wonderfully with different meats.

This makes penne a hearty and satisfying option for dinner. Here we will explore two delicious penne recipes featuring chicken and shrimp that are simple to make yet packed with flavor.

Chicken Penne Alfredo

This classic creamy Alfredo dish combines tender chicken with a rich and comforting sauce. It’s the perfect example of comfort food at its best.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 11⁄2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

Our penne pasta recipes with Alfredo sauce are creamy, rich, and perfect for those who love a decadent meal.

1. Season the chicken breasts all over with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Working in batches if needed, cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese a handful at a time until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Chop or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir into the creamy sauce along with the cooked penne. Toss everything together gently until fully coated.
7. Taste and season further with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy!

Shrimp Penne with Garlic Sauce

Try our penne pasta recipes with shrimp like the Shrimp Penne with Garlic Sauce for a light and flavorful dinner option. This quick shrimp penne dish highlights the fresh flavors of garlic, lemon, and parsley. It makes for a light yet satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque all the way through.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until well combined and heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper or lemon juice.
6. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy immediately!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Meat Sauces

Some additional tips for making tasty meat-based penne sauces:

• Always use high-quality, fresh ingredients like herbs, garlic and vegetables to enhance natural flavors.
• When browning meats like chicken or sausage in a skillet, do not overcrowd the pan. Leave space between pieces so they brown evenly without steaming.
• Reserve a cup or so of the pasta’s cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be added to thin out a sauce that has become too thick upon cooling.
• Taste the sauce as you cook and season gradually with salt, pepper and other seasonings to achieve your desired level of flavor.
• For cream-based sauces, use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan as the sauce simmers to prevent scorching.
• Allow finished dishes to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.

These quick penne pasta dinner ideas ensure that you can serve a delicious meal even on the busiest nights. Whether you choose the classic chicken Alfredo, penne pasta with Alfredo sauce, or a light shrimp scampi-inspired dish, these meaty penne recipes are sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table! Follow the tips for perfect sauces and you’ll be serving flavorful, homemade penne dishes in no time.

Traditional Italian Penne Recipes

These Italian penne pasta recipes showcase the traditional flavors and techniques that have made penne a staple in Italian home cooking for centuries.

Penne pasta has been a staple in Italian home cooking for centuries. Versatile penne lends itself to many beloved recipes passed down through generations. This section explores two iconic dishes that demonstrate penne’s versatility and the cultural significance of pasta in Italian culture.

Penne Arrabbiata

This spicy Roman specialty dates back to the 1950s but has roots in traditional Italian peasant cooking. The name “Arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, a reference to the heat from red pepper flakes. While simple, it allows the bold flavors to shine.

• Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. This step is important to mellow the garlic’s bite.
• Add a pinch or two of crushed red pepper flakes and cook for 1 additional minute, being careful not to burn them. The pepper flakes will become aromatic but retain some heat.
• Pour in one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let cook, uncovered, until thickened, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld.
• Cook 1 pound penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and return to pot.
• Add the Arrabbiata sauce and toss well to coat each strand. The sauce will cling nicely to the penne’s ridges.
• Garnish with a handful of fresh parsley leaves, chopped. The green adds color and balance to the rich, spicy-sweet sauce.

Our penne Arrabbiata recipes bring the spicy Roman specialty into your kitchen with ease and authenticity.

Marinara Sauce Variations

For a classic favorite, try penne pasta with marinara sauce, where the rich tomato flavor perfectly complements the penne’s texture. While the basic recipe is simple – olive oil, minced garlic, canned tomatoes, and fresh basil – resourceful Italian cooks have developed many tasty variations.

• For extra sweetness and complexity, some recipes start with a soffritto. Sauté 1/4 cup each diced onion and carrot with the garlic until very soft, about 10 minutes. This brings out the vegetables’ natural sugars.
• A splash of dry red wine in the soffritto adds acidity and depth of flavor. Just 1/4 cup is enough. Simmer until the alcohol cooks off.
• A pinch of sugar can also enhance and round out the flavors, balancing the tomatoes’ acidity. Add it along with the tomatoes.
• Using both crushed and diced tomatoes adds layers of texture. Crushed tomatoes provide a smooth base while diced tomatoes break down into chunky bites.
• Long, slow cooking for 30 minutes or more allows the flavors to develop fully and the sauce to thicken nicely for coating each penne strand. The longer cook time is well worth the wait.

From the spicy kick of Penne Arrabbiata to the cozy flavors of Penne alla Marinara, these dishes are beloved for good reason. Their hearty, satisfying qualities have kept them at the heart of Italian family meals for generations.

Baked Penne Pasta Variations

Baked penne pasta creates a hearty meal that can feed a crowd. The best part is these dishes can be made in advance or frozen for easy weeknight dinners. These baked penne pasta recipes create a hearty meal that can feed a crowd, perfect for gatherings or meal prepping.

Cheesy Baked Ziti

A comforting classic everyone will love! This baked ziti is packed with layers of rich flavors. Our baked penne pasta with cheese recipes, like Cheesy Baked Ziti, are layered with rich cheeses for that irresistible gooey texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1⁄2 cup finely diced white onion
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 28 ounces tomato basil pasta sauce
• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked until al dente
• 1 1⁄2 cups part-skim ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef with onion and garlic until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in pasta sauce and seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, 1 cup ricotta cheese and 2 cups mozzarella cheese. Mix until fully combined.
5. Spread half the penne mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half the meat sauce.
6. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese and remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
7. Add remaining penne mixture and top with remaining meat sauce.
8. Sprinkle with remaining 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
9. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes until hot, bubbly and lightly browned.

Vegetable Baked Penne

A healthy take on baked penne with fresh seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups assorted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 1⁄2 cups part-skim ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Cook penne pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sauté vegetables and garlic with herbs until tender, about 7-10 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine penne, vegetable mixture, marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Mix until fully combined.
5. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining mozzarella and bake 10 more minutes until hot and bubbly.

Tips for Making Ahead and Freezing

With a few easy steps, you can get tasty homemade pastas on the table even on busy nights. Follow these tips to prepare dishes in advance.

• Assemble Ahead of Time: You can put together casseroles, bakes and more up to one day before you need them. Just assemble everything in your baking dish, then tightly cover with foil or plastic wrap. Stash it in the fridge until baking day.
• Freeze for Later: Want to get even more organized? You can freeze assembled-but-unbaked dishes for up to three months. Cover your dish first with plastic wrap to seal in moisture. Then wrap again with foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the name and date so you know what’s what.
• Bake from Frozen: When the time comes to cook a frozen meal, there’s no need to thaw first. Simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit overnight in the fridge. Then pop it in the oven using the usual temperature and time. You’ll end up with a hot, homemade dinner with minimal effort. These baked penne recipes are sure to be hits at any gathering!

Ready to impress with a creamy pasta dish? Try this Chicken Penne Vodka Pasta recipe now!

Complete Your Penne Pasta Meal with Flavorful Side Dishes and Beverage Pairings

No penne pasta dish is complete without the right accompaniments. The addition of fresh, tasty side dishes and carefully selected drinks helps create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. Consider these suggestions to take your penne pasta meals to the next level.

Side Dishes

• Salads: Green salad or Caesar salad adds crunch, freshness and nutrients to lighten things up. Crisp lettuce, vegetables and dressing balance the richness of pasta. Try different salad mixes like spinach, arugula or mixed greens for variety. Add vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers or olives for extra flavor and texture.
• Bread: Toasted garlic bread is a classic pairing that soaks up any extra sauce lingering on the plate. The garlic butter adds savory depth. For gluten-free options, grill or bake bread made with alternative flours.
• Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms and more add vibrant colors and flavors to the side of the plate. Roasting concentrates their natural sweetness. Sauté spinach or kale quickly with olive oil, garlic and red pepper flakes for a speedy green side. The crispy leaves contrast nicely with the pasta.

Beverage Pairings

• Wine: Red wine with meat or tomato-based penne pairs best. Medium-bodied reds like Merlot or Chianti have soft tannins that complement saucy dishes. Lighter penne pastas featuring seafood, vegetables or cream sauce cry out for a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with slices of lemon, lime or oranges offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites. Unsweetened iced tea is versatile and won’t overpower delicate pasta flavors. Herbal teas also work well.

Sweet Endings

• Tiramisu is a classic coffee-flavored Italian dessert that provides the perfect ending to an Italian-inspired pasta meal. The ladyfinger cookies soaked in espresso and layered with mascarpone cream satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Creamy gelato, sorbet or ice cream lets you finish on a cool note. Pistachio, hazelnut, and mocha are nutty flavors that complement the savory meal.
• For an espresso jolt, dunk crisp biscotti cookies in a demitasse. The hard texture contrasts with the soft pasta.

With these well-paired sides and drinks, your penne pasta dinners are sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters!

Try Out These Flexible Penne Pasta Dish Ideas

We’ve covered a lot of recipe ideas in this article. As you can see, penne pasta is very flexible and pairs well with many different foods. These are some of the best penne pasta recipes for family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Whether you choose meat, seafood, vegetables or cheese, penne will soak up flavors nicely.

Some recipes need just a few basic ingredients and take only 20 minutes. Others require a little more effort but make enough for leftovers. The baked pastas are great for feeding a crowd. And the healthy options help you get nutrition from penne too.

We hope seeing all the options gives you some new recipe ideas to try. Don’t be afraid to make substitutions based on your preferences. You can’t really go wrong when cooking with penne!

If you want more tips for certain types of dishes, check out our other articles. We cover the basics of cooking pasta, homemade sauces and keeping ingredients fresh too.

Have fun experimenting in the kitchen. Let us know if any recipes become your new family favorites!

Easy Penne Pasta FAQs

Have other questions about cooking with penne? Check out these frequently asked queries and their answers: