
Photo credit: I Heart Naptime.
Penne pasta is a dinner staple for a reason—it’s easy to cook, pairs well with just about anything, and always hits the spot. These 30 recipes show just how versatile it can be, from creamy bakes to light and fresh meals. Whether you’re craving something comforting or need a quick weeknight dinner, there’s a dish here for you. With flavors ranging from classic Italian to bold and spicy, you’ll never get bored of penne again. Get ready to add some new favorites to your recipe rotation!

Ground Turkey Pasta
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This hearty pasta dish makes ground turkey the star of a well-balanced meal. The rich sauce and tender penne come together quickly, making it an easy choice for dinner. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s perfect for busy evenings. The lean protein and flavorful seasoning create a dish that’s both comforting and filling. It’s an effortless way to switch up your usual pasta routine with something satisfying for everyone.
Get the Recipe Here: Ground Turkey Pasta

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This pasta salad combines penne, juicy chicken, and crisp broccoli for a refreshing yet hearty meal. It’s a great option for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. The simple dressing ties everything together without requiring much effort. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for an easy meal that works in any season. It’s proof that pasta salads can be just as satisfying as a hot dish.
Get the Recipe Here: Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Salad Pasta Bake
Photo credit: Drizzle Me Skinny.
This pasta bake brings together everything you love about a Caesar salad in a warm, comforting dish. Tender chicken and penne are coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce with a hint of Parmesan. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy meal that doesn’t require much hands-on time. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a simple way to switch up their pasta nights. The crispy topping adds the finishing touch to this effortless dinner.
Get the Recipe Here: Chicken Caesar Salad Pasta Bake

Creamy Penne Salmon Pasta
Photo credit: White Kitchen Red Wine.
This creamy pasta pairs rich salmon with a smooth, flavorful sauce that clings to every bite. The combination of penne, flaky salmon, and a light cream sauce makes for a satisfying meal without being too heavy. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood in a fuss-free dinner. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, it’s perfect for any night of the week. The balance of flavors keeps it from being overpowering while still feeling like a hearty dish.
Get the Recipe Here: Creamy Penne Salmon Pasta

Penne Pasta with Tomato Ricotta Sauce
Photo credit: Easy Homemade Recipes.
This dish brings together penne and a smooth, creamy tomato-ricotta sauce for a simple yet satisfying meal. The ricotta adds a rich texture without making the dish too heavy. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s an easy way to enjoy a comforting plate of pasta. It’s a great choice for those nights when you need something quick but homemade. The flavors come together effortlessly for a dish everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe Here: Penne Pasta with Tomato Ricotta Sauce

Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Photo credit: Mommy Evolution.
Packed with fresh ingredients, this pasta salad is a great way to bring bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. Penne, olives, tomatoes, and a light dressing create a meal that works well for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It’s easy to throw together and can be made ahead of time. The bright flavors make it a refreshing alternative to heavier pasta dishes. It’s a go-to choice for anyone looking for something simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe Here: Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Penne Pomodoro
Photo credit: Skinny Spatula.
This classic Italian dish keeps things simple with a bright tomato sauce and perfectly cooked penne. It’s a quick and easy meal that delivers plenty of flavor with minimal ingredients. Fresh basil and garlic give it an extra boost without making the process complicated. It’s the kind of dish that works for both busy nights and special occasions. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese for a comforting, no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe Here: Penne Pomodoro

Gluten-Free Greek Pasta Salad
Photo credit: Strength and Sunshine.
This refreshing pasta salad brings together penne, crisp vegetables, and a light dressing for a meal that works in any season. It’s packed with bold Mediterranean flavors and comes together quickly. The combination of ingredients keeps it fresh while still feeling like a filling meal. It’s an easy choice for meal prep, lunches, or as a side dish. Simple yet satisfying, it’s great for anyone looking for a no-fuss pasta salad.
Get the Recipe Here: Gluten-Free Greek Pasta Salad

Gluten-Free Penne alla Vodka
Photo credit: Strength and Sunshine.
This classic dish features a creamy vodka sauce that coats every piece of penne perfectly. The tomato-based sauce is smooth and balanced, making it a great choice for pasta night. It’s rich without being too heavy, and it comes together in no time. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple dinner, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. A sprinkle of cheese on top finishes it off perfectly.
Get the Recipe Here: Gluten-Free Penne alla Vodka

Instant Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta
Photo credit: The Cookin' Chicks.
This one-pot meal combines penne, sausage, and bold Cajun spices for a flavorful and effortless dinner. The Instant Pot does most of the work, making it perfect for busy nights. With just a few ingredients, it delivers a satisfying balance of spice and creaminess. It’s a great way to bring a little heat to pasta night without spending much time in the kitchen. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this dish is a must-try.
Get the Recipe Here: Instant Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Photo credit: Culinary Clout.
This rich pasta dish combines shrimp and penne in a smooth Parmesan sauce that coats every bite. The sauce is creamy without being too heavy, making it perfect for a satisfying meal. Shrimp adds a light, fresh contrast to the pasta, creating a well-balanced dish. It’s quick to prepare, making it great for both weeknights and special occasions. A sprinkle of extra cheese on top makes it even better.
Get the Recipe Here: Creamy Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Photo credit: Maria's Mixing Bowl.
This simple dish brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and penne in a satisfying meal. The light sauce ties everything together without overpowering the flavors. It’s a great way to add some greens to your dinner without extra effort. Perfect for busy nights, it comes together quickly and requires minimal prep. Serve it as is or with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe Here: Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Penne Pasta
Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.
A smooth, rich sauce coats every piece of penne in this simple yet satisfying dish. It’s an easy go-to meal when you need something filling without much prep. The creamy texture makes it a comforting choice for any night of the week. With just a few pantry staples, it’s a dish you can always count on. Serve it on its own or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe Here: Creamy Penne Pasta

Penne Rosa Pasta
Photo credit: xoxoBella.
This dish features penne tossed in a creamy tomato sauce with a hint of spice. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that works for both weeknights and gatherings. The balance of creaminess and tangy tomato sauce makes it stand out from other pasta dishes. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a simple yet satisfying option. Serve it with fresh basil or a sprinkle of cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
Get the Recipe Here: Penne Rosa Pasta

Four Cheese Pasta
Photo credit: Simply Made Eats.
This pasta dish is packed with rich, creamy flavors from a blend of cheeses that coat every bite. The smooth, melty texture makes it a favorite for anyone looking for a comforting meal. Penne holds the sauce well, ensuring a balanced bite every time. It’s quick to prepare and great for those nights when you need something filling with little effort. A golden, cheesy topping makes it even better.
Get the Recipe Here: Four Cheese Pasta

Spinach Garlic Pasta
Photo credit: My Chef's Apron.
This simple pasta dish brings together fresh spinach, garlic, and penne for a meal that’s light yet filling. The garlic adds just the right amount of flavor without being overwhelming. It’s an easy way to add greens to your pasta without extra effort. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, it’s a great go-to dinner. Serve it as is or with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a little extra flavor.
Get the Recipe Here: Spinach Garlic Pasta

Sausage Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Photo credit: My Chef's Apron.
This dish brings together penne, savory sausage, and slightly bitter broccoli rabe for a well-balanced meal. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying contrast without requiring complicated ingredients. It’s a great way to switch up your usual pasta routine with something hearty and simple. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight. A sprinkle of cheese on top finishes it off perfectly.
Get the Recipe Here: Sausage Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Penne Amatriciana
Photo credit: Tasting with Tina.
This classic Italian pasta features a rich tomato sauce with pancetta and just the right amount of spice. Penne holds onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is full of bold flavors. It’s a simple dish that delivers plenty of taste without needing much effort. Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a quick but flavorful meal. Serve it with fresh basil or Parmesan for the perfect finishing touch.
Get the Recipe Here: Penne Amatriciana

Chicken Carbonara
Photo credit: Healthy Fitness Meals.
This creamy pasta dish brings together penne, crispy bacon, and tender chicken in a smooth, flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting meal that feels special without requiring too much time in the kitchen. The combination of eggs, cheese, and pasta creates a rich texture that coats every bite. Quick to prepare, it’s great for both weeknights and dinner parties. A sprinkle of black pepper and Parmesan on top adds the perfect final touch.
Get the Recipe Here: Chicken Carbonara

Shrimp Scampi Penne Pasta
Photo credit: Cup of Flour.
This shrimp scampi pasta keeps things simple with a buttery garlic sauce that coats each piece of penne. The fresh shrimp adds a light, seafood flavor that pairs well with the pasta. It’s a quick dish that works for both casual dinners and special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a fuss-free way to bring fresh flavors to the table. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
Get the Recipe Here: Shrimp Scampi Penne Pasta

Greek Pasta Salad
Photo credit: Lynn's Way of Life.
This refreshing pasta salad combines penne, crisp vegetables, and a light dressing for a meal that works in any season. It’s great for meal prep, picnics, or as a simple side dish. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it stand out without requiring much effort. It’s an easy way to bring Mediterranean flavors to the table in a dish that keeps well. Serve it chilled for the best texture and taste.
Get the Recipe Here: Greek Pasta Salad

Instant Pot Feta Pasta
Photo credit: Eating In An Instant.
This easy pasta dish takes full advantage of the Instant Pot for a hands-off meal that’s packed with flavor. The creamy, tangy feta melts into a rich sauce that coats the penne perfectly. With just a few ingredients, it’s a great option for a quick and filling dinner. The Instant Pot makes it effortless, cutting down on both prep and cleanup. Serve it with fresh basil or black pepper for an extra burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe Here: Instant Pot Feta Pasta

Tomato Basil Pasta
Photo credit: The Sassy Foodie.
This classic pasta dish features a light yet flavorful tomato sauce infused with fresh basil. It’s a simple recipe that delivers bold flavors without requiring much effort. Penne holds the sauce well, making every bite full of fresh ingredients. It’s great for both quick dinners and meal prep, staying fresh and flavorful even the next day. A sprinkle of cheese on top completes the dish.
Get the Recipe Here: Tomato Basil Pasta

Chicken and Sweetcorn Pasta Salad
Photo credit: Tips n Recipes.
This pasta salad is packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and penne for a meal that’s fresh yet filling. It’s a great choice for meal prep, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of ingredients gives it a nice balance of textures without requiring much effort. It’s easy to make ahead and keeps well in the fridge. Serve it cold for a refreshing twist on pasta night.
Get the Recipe Here: Chicken and Sweetcorn Pasta Salad

Cheesy Penne Ground Beef Casserole
Photo credit: Deli's Crunch.
This baked pasta dish combines penne, seasoned ground beef, and plenty of melted cheese for a comforting meal. The casserole format makes it great for feeding a crowd with minimal prep. With a rich, hearty sauce, it’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup simple. A crispy, golden topping adds the perfect finishing touch.
Get the Recipe Here: Cheesy Penne Ground Beef Casserole

Lemon Garlic Pasta
Photo credit: My Kitchen Serenity.
This light yet flavorful pasta dish brings together penne, fresh lemon, and garlic for a meal that’s simple but bold. The bright flavors make it a refreshing change from heavier sauces. It’s quick to prepare, making it great for both weeknights and last-minute meals. With minimal ingredients, it’s proof that simple combinations can still be full of flavor. Serve it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for extra depth.
Get the Recipe Here: Lemon Garlic Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Photo credit: I Heart Naptime.
This pasta dish features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that coats every piece of penne. The rich, smooth texture makes it a go-to choice for a filling meal. With minimal prep, it comes together quickly without feeling rushed. The balance of flavors keeps it from being too heavy while still feeling like a satisfying dish. Serve it with fresh spinach or Parmesan for the perfect finish.
Get the Recipe Here: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Chorizo and Prawn Pasta
Photo credit: Cooking Gorgeous.
This pasta dish brings together spicy chorizo and fresh prawns for a meal packed with bold flavors. The combination of ingredients creates a contrast of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet notes. Penne soaks up the sauce, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. It’s a great way to bring seafood and spice together in an easy dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright finishing touch.
Get the Recipe Here: Chorizo and Prawn Pasta

Penne in Tomato Vodka Sauce
Photo credit: The Spice Adventuress.
This creamy vodka sauce coats penne in a rich, smooth texture with just the right amount of tang. The tomato-based sauce is balanced by cream and a hint of spice. It’s a simple but flavorful dish that works well for both casual dinners and special occasions. Quick to prepare, it’s a great choice for a stress-free meal. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top makes it even better.
Get the Recipe Here: Penne in Tomato Vodka Sauce

Creamy Salmon Pasta
Photo credit: Cooking my Dreams.
This pasta dish features tender salmon in a rich, creamy sauce that coats each piece of penne. The combination of seafood and a smooth sauce makes for a comforting yet balanced meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it an easy choice for both weeknights and special occasions. With just a few ingredients, it delivers plenty of flavor without extra work. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs for the perfect finishing touch.
Get the Recipe Here: Creamy Salmon Pasta