In the depths of every kitchen cabinet, everyone has a box of penne. This simple pasta shape can sometimes be simple, almost too simple. I look at penne and I’m always at a crossroads – what to make? If you’re like me, you’ve solved dinner dilemmas here! These are some great recipes that will transform your box of penne from simple to stunning. Choose any of the four penne dinners and you will have a great meal tonight!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
There are some combinations that are just phenomenal together. For some reason chicken, bacon, and ranch is a winning mix of flavors. If you’ve ever had a chicken club with ranch then you know what heaven it the combo is. Now this great taste can be had in a pasta dish that makes enough for the whole family. Serve with a salad or a veggie side dish and you’ve got a very tasty dinner for a crowd- all with minimal effort on your part.
Eggplant Penne
Eggplant is one of those vegetables that can take on a lot of different flavors and this makes it a perfect ingredient for a casserole. Undercooked and it can be tough and hard to eat, but overcooked it becomes too mushy. When this veggie is made properly though, it’s one of my favorites.
This eggplant penne is a great main dish and it’s vegetarian. But, this would also be a great accompaniment to some baked or grilled chicken breast for a more protein-rich meal. Or, I could see adding in some browned Italian sausage to the sauce as well.
Creamy Penne alla Vodka
Its simplicity is what makes penne alla vodka so amazing. The recipe calls for pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, so it’s easy to make and super delicious to eat. Bacon and heavy cream make everything taste better so that’s why I’m using them both here. We all know that bacon adds richness from all that rendered fat and, because the bacon is diced into small bits, that means each bite of my penne alla vodka will have a bit of mouth-wateringly salty bacon.
Penne with Chicken and Artichokes
Good food puts me in a good mood. One of those good-mood-foods that I love to make is penne with chicken and artichokes. It’s super flavorful, but more importantly, it’s also quick and easy. I need some pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to whip up what I think is a deliciously satisfying dish. When time allows, I’m all for slow-cooked meals that give me the opportunity to test my culinary stamina. Usually, though, I’m just looking to get good food on the table that my family loves. Cue the penne with chicken and artichokes!