Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner solution? Look no further than creamy penne pasta! This classic Italian dish is easy to make and can be customized with a wide range of flavors. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering creamy penne pasta recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From rich and indulgent sauces like Parmesan and garlic to fresh and herby flavors like basil and lemon, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Many of these recipes can be made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. So go ahead, get creative, and let the creamy penne pasta magic begin!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of penne pasta with the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the minced garlic in a little oil over medium heat until fragrant.
3. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the comforting flavors of penne alfredo with the smoky goodness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine cooked penne pasta and chicken in the skillet. Toss to coat with Alfredo sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Penne
Experience the flavors of Italy with this quick and easy recipe, combining sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving
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 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with tomato-spinach mixture. Toss with reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Penne in Cream Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with succulent shrimp and a rich cream sauce, all wrapped up in al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine with the cream sauce.
9. Toss the cooked penne pasta with the shrimp and cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Mushroom and White Wine Cream Sauce
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines tender mushrooms, a hint of white wine, and a velvety cream sauce to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add white wine; simmer for 1 minute or until liquid is almost fully reduced.
5. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Bring sauce to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Penne Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the nutty taste of artichokes with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and artichoke hearts in a little olive oil until tender.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let thicken for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, artichoke-spinach mixture, and creamy sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Pancetta
Penne alla Vodka with Pancetta: A Classic Italian Dish
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy pasta dish featuring penne, vodka-infused tomato sauce, and crispy pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, vodka-infused tomato sauce, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked penne pasta and sauce. Top with crispy pancetta, if desired. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if preferred.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Penne with Shrimp
This refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of tender shrimp, garlicky butter, and zesty lemon sauce coats the penne pasta in a delicious and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sauce mixture in a large bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pesto Penne with Roasted Vegetables
Transform your pasta dish into a vibrant and flavorful masterpiece by combining creamy pesto sauce with roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see note)
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 small eggplant, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and cooked penne pasta. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Add roasted vegetables to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Penne with Spicy Sausage and Creamy Tomato Sauce
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of spicy sausage and creamy tomato sauce with the perfect amount of penne noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta and sausage mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Penne in Garlic Cream Sauce
Experience the flavors of Tuscany with this rich and creamy pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a savory garlic cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken in garlic until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne Carbonara with Peas and Bacon
A rich and satisfying Italian-inspired dish that combines the comfort of bacon, peas, and eggs with the simplicity of penne pasta. This recipe is quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup (115g) fresh or frozen peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and 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 peas to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve creamy consistency.
6. Add cooked bacon and peas to the bowl and gently fold to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Herb Penne with Grilled Salmon
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the simplicity of grilled salmon, all on a bed of herb-infused penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add olive oil, parsley, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Brush both sides of salmon fillets with the herb-infused oil mixture.
6. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve grilled salmon on top of pasta, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This creamy pasta recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the comfort of penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful sauce, featuring roasted red peppers and tangy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Remove roasted red peppers from oven and peel off skin. Chop into small pieces and add to skillet with onion mixture.
6. Stir in crumbled goat cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked penne pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Penne Pasta Bake
A creamy and comforting pasta dish perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and penne pasta in a satisfying bake.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 3 cups (750ml) broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup (250ml) grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup (125ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Penne with Creamy Pumpkin and Sage Sauce
This autumn-inspired pasta dish combines the warmth of pumpkin puree with the earthiness of sage, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
– 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 heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Mushroom Penne with Truffle Oil
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and mushrooms with the earthiness of truffle oil, all wrapped up in a satisfying penne dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in truffle oil and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the mushroom-truffle mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Creamy Avocado Pesto
Experience the creamy richness of avocado pesto paired with al dente penne pasta for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, pitted
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (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 blender or food processor, combine avocado, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Cook the blended pesto mixture in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
4. Combine cooked penne pasta with the creamy avocado pesto. Toss to coat, adjusting seasoning if needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Gouda and Bacon Penne Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the smoky flavor of smoked gouda with the savory goodness of crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded smoked Gouda cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the cheese sauce and toss until well coated.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a creamy pasta extravaganza! These 20 delicious penne pasta recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic Alfredo to bold Cajun shrimp and spicy sausage, there’s something for everyone. Try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta, Penne alla Vodka with Pancetta, or Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Penne for a flavorful twist. With ingredients ranging from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables, you’ll never tire of these creamy creations.