If you are looking for some macaroni penne recipe inspiration, you’re in the right place. Macaroni pasta is one of the most popular and recognizable pasta shapes in the world. You probably have some in your pantry right now. (If not, this is your reminder to grab some!).

This amazing shortcut is named for its “quill” (or “pen”) shape. Classified as a tube pasta, penne is narrower and longer than Rigatoni. Its hollow center, outer ridges, and angled ends make it the perfect pasta for capturing sauces—from hearty meat ragùs to creamy tomato sauces like Penne alla Vodka.

It’s no wonder that penne pasta is so famous. It is a versatile shortcut that dazzles a myriad of dishes for every season and every occasion. When we think of winter comfort foods, cheesy baked pasta with penne is at the top of our list. In the summertime, penne gets its feature in picnic pasta salads—both creamy macaroni salads and the kind dressed in olive oil and Italian seasonings.

Penne shines in simple dishes too. Cook up some al dente penne pasta then dress it in olive oil, ground black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Whether you are planning an easy weeknight meal for the family or cooking up something impressive for your weekend dinner guests, Macaroni penne is your go-to pasta. Its slim tube shape and pointed ends give it a touch of class—do not you think?

Cooking Ingredients

1. 2 cups penne pasta (about 8 oz)

2. 1 tablespoon butter

3. 1 tablespoon olive oil

4. 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

5. 2 cloves garlic, minced

6. 1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes

7. 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, or to taste

8. Salt, to taste

Cooking Instruction

Melt the butter and olive oil in a medium skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until it is soft and translucent about five to six minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring, for another 15 seconds. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Season with chili flakes and salt to taste. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente, about 10 to 11 minutes, or according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid.

Add the pasta along with the reserved cooking water to the tomato sauce. Stir well to coat and cook together for some minutes to blend the flavors. Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve immediately.