Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious and creamy penne pasta recipes to spice up your mealtime. From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta, to bold flavors like Cajun Shrimp Penne Alfredo and Spicy Sausage and Kale Penne Pasta, we’ve gathered the best of the best to inspire your next dinner party or family gathering.
Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces, or bright and zesty flavors, our collection has something for everyone. And with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and truffle oil, these recipes are sure to elevate your pasta game. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the comforting goodness of penne pasta!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and penne pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the cream sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta with the creamy garlic sauce and toss to coat.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Fresh Basil
This recipe combines the rich flavors of vodka-infused tomato sauce with the brightness of fresh basil, served over al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, vodka, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in chopped fresh basil leaves.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and tomato-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Penne Alfredo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional Alfredo sauce with the bold spices and succulent shrimp of Cajun cuisine. The result is a deliciously complex dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly. Remove from heat when smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and shrimp mixture. Toss with Alfredo sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the richness of roasted red peppers with the simplicity of penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is charred and blistered.
3. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and chop into a rough puree.
4. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
6. Add roasted red pepper puree to the skillet, stirring to combine with garlic and oil.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Combine cooked penne pasta with roasted red pepper sauce and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Penne with Grilled Chicken
A classic Italian dish gets a boost from juicy grilled chicken and creamy pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and olive oil. Add cooked chicken and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta with chicken and pesto mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Penne Pasta
Spicy Sausage and Kale Penne Pasta: A Hearty One-Pot Meal
This spicy sausage and kale penne pasta recipe is a quick and easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, tender kale, and al dente penne pasta in a spicy tomato sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in kale, penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Penne with Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and savory recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, tangy lemon butter sauce, and al dente penne.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sauce mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Truffle Oil Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and earthy recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms and a drizzle of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add sliced mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start browning (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in truffle oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
This autumnal pasta dish combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin, garlic, and cream with the simplicity of penne pasta. A perfect side dish or main course for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 cups), cooked and mashed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant.
3. Add the mashed pumpkin, heavy cream, and dried sage to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pumpkin sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Pea Penne Carbonara
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this Bacon and Pea Penne Carbonara combines the richness of bacon with the sweetness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the frozen peas to the same skillet and cook until thawed and tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the cooked pasta, bacon, and peas to the egg mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Spinach and Ricotta
This classic Italian dish combines al dente penne pasta with a rich and creamy sauce made from spinach, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz (225g) ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Chili
This classic Italian pasta dish gets a spicy kick from fresh chili peppers, garlic, and olive oil. Serve as a quick weeknight dinner or elevate it for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2-3 fresh chili peppers (such as jalapeño or Anaheim), seeded and chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped chili peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add reserved pasta water, then toss with cooked penne, salt, and black pepper.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, basil, and cream with al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 2 cups (400ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (30g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the reserved pasta water over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add garlic, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it thicken slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy tomato sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Roasted Garlic and Broccoli
This comforting pasta dish combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic with the bright, earthy taste of broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 4-5 cloves of garlic, separated into individual bulbs
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the garlic bulbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Combine cooked penne, roasted garlic, and broccoli in a large serving bowl. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Penne with Olives and Feta
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in this simple yet satisfying pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add sliced olives and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, olive mixture, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this elegant yet effortless dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon, cream, and fresh dill. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flaked smoked salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh dill. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Combine the cooked penne pasta with the smoked salmon cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne Pasta with Butternut Squash and Sage
This hearty pasta dish combines the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash and crispy sage leaves with al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 4 sage leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of black pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté chopped sage leaves in a little olive oil until crispy.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted squash, crispy sage, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time:
– Roasting squash: 30-40 minutes
– Cooking pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Total: 45-55 minutes
Penne with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the tanginess of gorgonzola cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying penne pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gorgonzola cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Stir in butter until melted. Add Gorgonzola cheese and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and onion mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Penne with Creamy Avocado Pesto
This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the rich flavors of pesto, creating a unique and delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil until fully incorporated.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to thin out the pesto if desired.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the creamy avocado pesto sauce. Toss well to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these creamy penne pasta recipes! From classic combinations like garlic parmesan and vodka sauce, to more adventurous options like Cajun shrimp and roasted red pepper, there’s something for everyone. Spice up your meals with spicy sausage and kale or try something new with Mediterranean olives and feta. Whether you’re in the mood for rich and creamy, bright and zesty, or savory and smoky, these 20 recipes are sure to become quick favorites.
