What is penne?

Penne is one of the most iconic Italian pasta shapes. The name comes from the Italian word penna (“pen”), because the diagonally cut tubes resemble quills.

Types of penne

Penne lisce — smooth tubes.

Penne rigate — ridged, which hold sauce better.

Penne is versatile: perfect with rich meat sauces, creamy mushroom sauces, or fresh tomato-based recipes.

How long to cook penne pasta?

The standard cooking time is 9–12 minutes in salted boiling water.

For al dente — about 9 minutes.

For softer pasta — 11–12 minutes.

Always drain without rinsing, so the starch helps sauces stick.

How to cook penne at home?

Bring water to a boil (1 liter per 100 g of pasta).

Add salt.

Cook penne for 9–12 minutes.

Drain and toss with olive oil.

Serving ideas

Creamy sauce with chicken and mushrooms.

Classic tomato and basil.

Pesto with vegetables.

Baked penne with cheese.

Tips

Don’t add oil to the boiling water.

Mix with sauce immediately after draining.

Try penne in cold pasta salads too.

Penne is one of the easiest pastas to cook. Just boil for 9–12 minutes, add your favorite sauce — and you have a restaurant-style dish at home.