Penne Pasta Recipe | Easy, Creamy & Delicious

If you’re looking for a comforting, restaurant-style meal that’s quick to make and loved by everyone, creamy penne pasta is the perfect choice. This classic Italian pasta has become a global favorite, and with a few simple ingredients, you can easily prepare it at home—no oven, no fancy tools, and no complicated techniques required.

In this detailed article, you’ll learn how to make easy, creamy, and delicious penne pasta at home, along with tips, variations, serving ideas, FAQs, and an important disclaimer.

What Is Penne Pasta?

Penne is a tube-shaped pasta with slanted ends that resemble a pen nib (hence the name penne, meaning “pen” in Italian). Its ridged surface and hollow center help sauces cling beautifully, making it ideal for creamy, tomato-based, or mixed sauces.

Why You’ll Love This Penne Pasta Recipe

• ✔ Easy and beginner-friendly

• ✔ Creamy, rich, and flavorful

• ✔ Made with simple pantry ingredients

• ✔ Customizable (veg, non-veg, spicy, or mild)

• ✔ Perfect for lunch, dinner, or parties

Ingredients for Creamy Penne Pasta

For Boiling Pasta

• Penne pasta – 2 cups

• Water – 6–7 cups

• Salt – 1 teaspoon

• Oil – 1 teaspoon

For Creamy Sauce

• Butter – 2 tablespoons

• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon

• Garlic (finely chopped) – 1 tablespoon

• Onion (finely chopped) – 1 small

• Capsicum (chopped) – ½ cup

• Sweet corn or mushrooms – ½ cup (optional)

• Fresh cream – 1 cup

• Milk – ½ cup

• Cheese (mozzarella or processed) – ½ cup

• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon

• Chili flakes – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)

• Italian seasoning or mixed herbs – 1 teaspoon

• Salt – to taste

Optional Add-Ons

• Paneer cubes

• Boiled chicken

• Broccoli, olives, or zucchini

Step-by-Step Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Heat water in a large pot.

2. Add salt and oil once the water starts boiling.

3. Add penne pasta and cook according to packet instructions (8–10 minutes).

4. Cook until al dente (soft but slightly firm).

5. Drain and keep aside. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a pan on medium flame.

2. Add chopped garlic and sauté until aromatic.

3. Add onions and cook until translucent.

4. Add capsicum and other vegetables; sauté for 2–3 minutes.

5. Lower the flame and add fresh cream and milk. Mix well.

6. Add salt, black pepper, chili flakes, and Italian seasoning.

7. Stir continuously to avoid curdling.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add boiled penne pasta to the sauce.

2. Mix gently so the pasta coats evenly.

3. Add cheese and a little reserved pasta water if needed.

4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Final Touch

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs (parsley/basil).

• Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Creamy Penne Pasta

• Always cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness.

• Keep flame low when adding cream.

• Use fresh cream for best texture.

• Don’t overcook vegetables; slight crunch adds flavor.

• Pasta water helps adjust consistency naturally.

Delicious Variations

1. Indian Style Masaledar Penne Pasta

Add red chili powder, garam masala, and a pinch of turmeric for a desi twist.

2. White Sauce Penne Pasta

Skip onions and add more milk, butter, and cheese for a classic white sauce version.

3. Tomato Cream Penne Pasta

Add ½ cup tomato puree for a pink sauce pasta.

4. Protein-Rich Version

Add grilled paneer, tofu, or chicken for a filling meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or toasted bread

• Pair with fresh green salad

• Perfect for lunch boxes or dinner parties

• Kids love it with extra cheese

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

• Reheat on low flame, adding a little milk if needed.

• Avoid reheating multiple times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I make penne pasta without cream?

Yes, you can replace cream with milk + a little butter or use cashew paste for a healthier option.

Q2. Which cheese is best for penne pasta?

Mozzarella gives stretch, while processed cheese adds creaminess. You can also use parmesan.

Q3. Can I make this pasta vegan?

Yes. Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese.

Q4. How do I prevent pasta from sticking?

Add oil to boiling water and stir occasionally while cooking.

Q5. Is penne pasta healthy?

In moderation, yes. Use whole-wheat pasta and add more vegetables for a healthier version.

Q6. Can I use any other pasta instead of penne?

Absolutely. Fusilli, macaroni, or farfalle work well.

Disclaimer

This recipe and information are provided for general cooking and educational purposes only. Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes used. If you have food allergies, dietary restrictions, or medical conditions, please consult a professional nutritionist or healthcare provider before trying this recipe.

Final Words

This Easy, Creamy & Delicious Penne Pasta Recipe proves that you don’t need a restaurant or fancy equipment to enjoy a rich and satisfying pasta dish at home. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a quick indulgent treat.