Are you ready to transform your pasta game with some seriously tasty penne recipes? You won't believe how easy it is to whip up dishes like creamy Penne Alfredo or the spicy kick of Penne Arrabbiata. Each recipe brings something special to the table, perfect for impressing friends or just enjoying a cozy meal at home. So, grab your apron, and let's plunge into these five delicious options that'll have your taste buds dancing!
Creamy Penne Alfredo
Creamy Penne Alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that's both indulgent and easy to prepare. With its rich and velvety sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, this meal is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
The penne pasta, with its tubular shape, captures the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is a delicious experience. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together, then remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce or using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged.
You can also customize your Alfredo by incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and variety.
Remember to serve the dish immediately, as the sauce may thicken as it cools. Enjoy your Creamy Penne Alfredo with a glass of white wine for a truly delightful dining experience!
Penne Arrabbiata

Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish that brings a fiery kick to your dinner table. Known for its simple yet bold flavors, this dish features al dente penne pasta coated in a spicy tomato sauce made with garlic, red chili flakes, and fresh herbs.
It's a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests with minimal effort. The heat level can be adjusted to your preference, making it a versatile option for spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors alike.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine thoroughly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream just before serving.
Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed; sometimes a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Pair your Penne Arrabbiata with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal that will delight your taste buds!
Pesto Penne With Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pesto Penne with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the nutty richness of pesto with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. This easy-to-make pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal for entertaining guests.
The combination of fresh basil pesto, al dente penne, and the chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes creates a pasta experience that's both satisfying and invigorating.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the pasta water, then drain the penne and add it directly to the bowl with the pesto mixture.
Toss the penne with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips:
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the pesto sauce.
If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile.
Additionally, feel free to customize the dish by adding grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, or even olives for an extra layer of taste.
Always taste before serving to adjust the seasoning and enjoy your delicious Pesto Penne with Sun-Dried Tomatoes!
Baked Penne With Cheese and Sausage

Baked Penne With Cheese and Sausage is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with creamy cheeses and al dente penne pasta, all baked to perfection to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped onions and bell peppers with the sausage.
If you prefer a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
To make this dish even creamier, you can mix in some heavy cream or sour cream with the ricotta.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave, making this baked penne a great make-ahead meal!
Lemon Garlic Penne With Spinach
Lemon Garlic Penne with Spinach is a vibrant and zesty dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and the freshness of lemon with tender spinach and al dente penne pasta.
This recipe isn't only quick and easy to prepare but also makes for a light yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. With its bright flavors and appealing colors, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add the fresh spinach, cooking until wilted, then stir in the cooked penne, lemon zest, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness or incorporating other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
This dish is also versatile; feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to guarantee the perfect balance of flavors!