When it comes to weeknight dinners, we’re always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipes that can be whipped up in no time. One classic favorite that never goes out of style is creamy penne pasta. This comforting dish is a staple in many Italian households, and its rich and creamy sauce makes it hard to resist. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy penne pasta and explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for a satisfying meal.
From classic Alfredo sauces to bold and flavorful twists with shrimp, sausage, and black beans, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your favorite pasta, get ready to cook, and let’s dive into the world of creamy penne pasta!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the comfort of garlic and parmesan cheese with the creaminess of a light sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan 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 until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed) in a large bowl. Toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
This classic Italian dish gets a protein-packed boost with the addition of grilled chicken, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 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.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, and creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Penne
A classic Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines the tangy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the richness of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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 the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Penne Pasta
This spicy and savory pasta dish combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with succulent shrimp, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 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 softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and cooked through (2-3 minutes per side).
4. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Mushroom and White Wine Sauce
A classic Italian dish elevated by a rich white wine sauce and savory mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked penne pasta, season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Penne with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian combination that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the creamy richness of pesto sauce with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a satisfying penne pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine cooked penne pasta and pesto sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Add roasted cherry tomatoes to the pasta mixture and toss again.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Penne
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This one-pot wonder combines penne pasta, fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a rich cream sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 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 or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Let sauce thicken slightly (about 5 minutes).
5. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing until well coated with the creamy tomato sauce.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped basil on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne alla Vodka with Pancetta
This classic Italian pasta dish combines the creaminess of vodka sauce with the savory goodness of pancetta, creating a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vodka
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in vodka and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
7. Stir in pancetta and season with salt and black pepper.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Penne with Shrimp
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, the zesty brightness of lemon, and the tender sweetness of shrimp to create a dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 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, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado and Bacon Penne
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the freshness of avocado with the smokiness of bacon, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 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, cook the crumbled bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the diced avocado to the skillet and stir gently until slightly softened.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined with the avocado mixture.
6. Combine the cooked pasta, bacon, and creamy avocado sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish featuring a sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the roasted red pepper mixture, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the roasted red pepper sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Penne Pasta
Looking for a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party? This Spinach and Artichoke Penne Pasta is sure to impress!
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 mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 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.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and chopped artichoke hearts in olive oil until tender.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta with the spinach-artichoke mixture.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Penne with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
Enjoy a comforting fall twist on classic pasta with this creamy pumpkin sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, sauté diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add cooked pumpkin puree, heavy cream, dried sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Toss cooked penne pasta with the creamy pumpkin sauce until well coated.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Penne with Scallops
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the tender sweetness of scallops, all on a bed of al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 12 large scallops
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re cooked through.
5. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet.
6. Pour in white wine (if using) and stir to deglaze the pan.
7. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and scallops in a serving dish.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne Carbonara with Peas
This classic Italian pasta dish gets a fresh twist by adding sweet and tender peas to the rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– Salt and black 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, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with the egg mixture until well coated.
5. Add the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches desired creaminess.
6. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional minute.
7. Combine the cooked pasta and pancetta or bacon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan-Style Penne with Sausage and Kale
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, kale, and tomatoes with the comfort of penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, reserved pasta water, and chopped kale. Bring to a simmer and cook until kale is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pesto Penne with Grilled Vegetables
A delicious and flavorful summer dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1/2 cup creamy pesto sauce
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill until tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and cooked pasta. Stir until well combined.
5. Add grilled vegetables to the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Sauce
A flavorful and elegant pasta dish featuring smoky salmon, tangy dill cream sauce, and al dente penne.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in flaked smoked salmon and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked penne pasta with the smoky salmon cream sauce until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Penne with Black Beans
This bold and flavorful pasta dish combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the creamy texture of black beans, all wrapped up in a spicy penne. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chipotle peppers, garlic, and cumin. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in black beans and cooked penne. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Butternut Squash and Sage Cream
Savor the flavors of autumn with this creamy penne dish featuring roasted butternut squash, sage, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting pasta recipe is perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, garlic, salt, and 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, combine roasted squash, heavy cream, butter, and sage. Simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and squash sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy and delicious penne pasta recipes! These 20 mouth-watering dishes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. From classic Alfredo with grilled chicken to Cajun shrimp, sun-dried tomato, and mushroom and white wine sauces, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the comforting flavors of garlic butter, lemon, and herb-infused sauces, or spice things up with spicy chipotle and black bean. Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner.
