Best Penne Pasta of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Penne pasta is a popular type of Italian pasta that is characterized by its tube-shaped structure with angled ends. Made from durum wheat flour and water, penne pasta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic pasta bakes and salads to more complex recipes. Its ridges and hollow center are perfect for holding sauces and dressings, making it a great choice for dishes that require a lot of flavor. Penne pasta is also available in different sizes, such as regular, large, and mini, giving chefs and home cooks alike plenty of options to choose from.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Barilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 8) Cover #TOP 1
Barilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 8)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Barilla Penne Pasta - 16 oz. (Pack of 12) Cover #TOP 2
Barilla Penne Pasta - 16 oz. (Pack of 12)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Barilla Ready Pasta, Fully Cooked Penne Pasta, Non-GMO & Kosher, 7 oz (Pack of 7) Cover #TOP 3
Barilla Ready Pasta, Fully Cooked Penne Pasta, Non-GMO & Kosher, 7 oz (Pack of 7)
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Penne Pasta

#TOP 1

Barilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 8)

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Barilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 8) Cover
Barilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 8) - Non-GMO Pasta Made with Durum Wheat Semolina - Kosher Certified Pasta

Barilla Penne Pasta is made with 100% durum wheat and water, creating a perfect "al dente" texture every time. This pack of 8, 16-ounce boxes is perfect for stocking up your pantry. The penne pasta is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sauces, including tomato, meat, vegetable, and spicy. It's also Non-GMO and Kosher certified, and free from major allergens, such as lactose, peanuts, tree nuts, and soy. Barilla has been trusted for generations for its uncompromising quality and perfect texture.

What We Like
Perfect cooking every time
Maintains nice texture and structure
Convenient bulk purchasing
Easy to cook
Great for various dishes
What We Don't Like
Occasional price variance
#TOP 2

Barilla Penne Pasta - 16 oz. (Pack of 12)

1000010539
Barilla Penne Pasta - 16 oz. (Pack of 12) Cover
Barilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 12) - Non-GMO Pasta Made with Durum Wheat Semolina - Kosher Certified Pasta

Barilla Penne Pasta is a pack of 12, 16-ounce boxes of non-GMO pasta made with 100% durum wheat and water. The tube shape with angled ends makes it perfect for pairing with your favorite pasta sauce. It cooks to perfection in just 11-12 minutes, delivering great taste and "al dente" texture every time. Barilla Penne pasta is also kosher certified, free from major allergens, and suitable for vegetarians.

What We Like
Great flavor
Convenient delivery
High protein content
Versatile for various dishes
Good texture
What We Don't Like
Higher price than some brands
Needs careful cooking
#TOP 3

Barilla Ready Pasta, Fully Cooked Penne Pasta, Non-GMO & Kosher, 7 oz (Pack of 7)

7 Ounce (Pack of 7)
Barilla Ready Pasta, Fully Cooked Penne Pasta, Non-GMO & Kosher, 7 oz (Pack of 7) Cover
Barilla Ready Pasta, Penne, 7 oz. Pouch (pack of 7)

Stock your pantry with Barilla Ready Pasta, fully cooked penne pasta that's ready in just 60 seconds. This pack of 7, 7-ounce pouches of non-GMO penne pasta is made with only three simple ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and Barilla pasta. Enjoy the delicious "al dente" pasta that's perfect for quick and easy meals without boiling or straining. Simply heat the pouch in the microwave for 60 seconds, then top with your favorite pasta sauce or ingredients.

What We Like
Quick and convenient
Perfectly cooked in 60 seconds
Versatile for various dishes
No boiling or straining needed
Good texture and flavor
What We Don't Like
More al dente than preferred
#TOP 4

Barilla Mini Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 12)

076808535600
Barilla Mini Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 12) Cover
Barilla Mini Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 12) - Non-GMO Pasta Made with Durum Wheat Semolina - Kosher Certified Pasta

Barilla Mini Penne Pasta, made with 100% durum wheat and water, is a miniature version of the famous penne pasta loved across Italy. The pasta cooks to perfection in 7-8 minutes and pairs well with chunkier meat or vegetable-based pasta sauce, refined dairy-based pasta sauce, tomato sauce, or a spicy sauce. The pasta is non-GMO verified, kosher certified, and free from major allergens, making it suitable for vegetarians. Barilla Mini Penne Pasta is perfect for creating delicious pasta meals and has been trusted for generations for its uncompromising quality and perfectly "al dente" texture.

What We Like
Convenient mini size
Great for pasta salads
Good flavor and price
Versatile for various dishes
Holds sauce well
What We Don't Like
Limited availability in local stores
Only available in mini size
#TOP 5

De Cecco Penne Rigate Pasta

VSS0041
De Cecco Penne Rigate Pasta Cover
De Cecco Penne Rigate Pasta, 16 Oz

De Cecco Penne Pasta is a delightful choice for your meals, available in a convenient 16 oz box. It's packed with beneficial nutrients, providing a good source of protein and essential vitamins like thiamin and folic acid. You’ll appreciate that it contains no GMOs, trans fats, or added sugars, making it a healthier option for your family. Plus, it cooks to perfection in just 12 minutes, or 10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture, giving you a quick and satisfying meal. Made in Italy, this pasta brings authentic flavor to your dining table.

What We Like
Great texture and shape
Holds sauce well
High-quality pasta
Affordable price
Sturdy packaging
What We Don't Like
Slightly longer cooking time
Price may be higher
#TOP 6

Rummo Penne Rigate Pasta N.66

TS0417-A700ML-M1883
Rummo Penne Rigate Pasta N.66 Cover
Rummo Penne Rigate Pasta N.66 - Penne Pasta Noodles, Dry Pasta, Durum Wheat Semolina Penne, Pasta from Italy - 16 Ounce (Pack of 5)

Rummo Penne Pasta offers a delightful culinary experience with its versatile shape, perfect for pairing with any sauce you choose. You’ll appreciate its quick cooking time of just 3 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy days when you still want a quality meal. Crafted using a unique slow production method, this pasta retains its exceptional qualities, ensuring a satisfying texture in every bite. Made from the finest durum wheat semolina, it promises a rich taste that elevates your dishes, bringing a piece of authentic Italian tradition to your table.

What We Like
Imported from Italy
Fresher taste
Healthy texture
Excellent al dente feel
Consistently good quality
What We Don't Like
Preference over American pasta
#TOP 7

Rummo Penne Rigate No. 66

RUM222
1 Pound (Pack of 1)
Rummo Penne Rigate No. 66 Cover
Rummo Italian Pasta Penne Rigate No. 66, Always Al Dente (1lb Package)

Rummo Penne Rigate is crafted in Italy using traditional techniques, ensuring that you enjoy a perfect texture with every dish you prepare. You can cook this pasta in just 11 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for busy weeknights. With 99% semolina, it is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, adding a nutritional boost to your meals. Whether you’re whipping up a classic pasta salad or a hearty casserole, this versatile pasta is ideal for a wide range of recipes.

What We Like
High quality pasta
Multiple varieties available
Authentically Italian taste
Stays al dente
What We Don't Like
May stick to pot
Delivery issues reported
#TOP 8

Barilla Whole Grain Penne Pasta

Whole Grain
Barilla Whole Grain Penne Pasta Cover
Barilla Whole Grain Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 12) - Non-GMO Pasta Made With 100% Whole Grain Durum Wheat - Great Source of Fiber

Barilla Whole Grain Penne offers a nutritious twist on traditional pasta. With double the fiber of regular Barilla pasta, you can enjoy a healthier meal option that supports digestive health. The ridges on the penne shape are perfect for holding onto sauces, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Made from high-quality durum wheat, this pasta delivers a delightful texture that cooks to perfection in just 9-10 minutes. Whether you’re creating a meat, vegetable, or cheese dish, this versatile pasta is designed to complement a variety of sauces, making meal preparation both easy and satisfying.

What We Like
Great taste
Healthier option
High fiber content
Cost-effective bulk pack
Holds up well to sauce
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher protein
Limited availability

BARILLA Protein+ Penne Pasta

1000010554
BARILLA Protein+ Penne Pasta Cover
BARILLA Protein+ (Plus) Penne Pasta, 14.5 Ounce (Pack of 12) - plant based pasta - Made from Lentils, Chickpeas & Peas - Non-GMO, Kosher Certified and Vegan

BARILLA Protein+ Pasta is a delicious and nutritious option for pasta lovers. Made with 100% plant-based protein from lentil flour, pea protein, and chickpea flour, this penne pasta is a good source of protein and fiber. It cooks to "Al dente" perfection in just 8-10 minutes, providing a quick and easy meal option. With its classic taste and texture, the whole family will love this protein-packed pasta. BARILLA Protein+ is also Non-GMO Project Verified and kosher certified, ensuring that you're getting a high-quality product. Whether you're looking for a healthier alternative or simply want to incorporate more protein into your diet, BARILLA Protein+ Pasta is a great choice.

What We Like
High protein content
Rich in fiber
Great taste
Variety of shapes
Quick cooking time
What We Don't Like
Sensitive to cooking conditions
Occasional delivery issues
#TOP 10

Rustichella d'Abruzzo Penne Pasta 500g

Rustichella d'Abruzzo Penne Pasta 500g Cover
Rustichella d'Abruzzo Penne Pasta (Pack of 2), 500g Each - Classic Durum Wheat Short Quill-Shaped Pasta - Perfect for Sauces and Baked Dishes - Cooks in 10-12 Minutes - Authentic Italian Pasta

Rustichella Penne Pasta is a top choice for anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience. Made from high-quality durum wheat semolina, this pasta delivers a genuine taste that elevates any meal. Its unique quill shape is designed to hold sauces perfectly, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. This pasta is incredibly versatile, pairing well with various sauces, from hearty meat ragù to fresh vegetable mixes. Plus, it cooks to al dente perfection in just 10-12 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for busy weeknight dinners.

What We Like
High quality pasta
Great flavor and texture
Perfect for sauces
Similar to homemade pasta
Favorite among kids
What We Don't Like
Price is a bit high
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of sauce is penne good for?

Penne pasta pairs well with a variety of sauces. Some popular choices include marinara, vodka sauce, Alfredo, bolognese, and pesto. It also goes well with arrabbiata, puttanesca, seafood, clam, and carbonara sauces.

Penne pasta's popularity stems from its ability to hold sauces effectively. The large diameter and ridges of penne allow it to retain sauces on its entire surface, making it an excellent choice for chunky meat or vegetable-based sauces. It also pairs well with dairy-based or regular tomato sauces, offering versatility in culinary creations.

3. What are the types of penne?

There are two types of penne pasta: penne rigate and penne lisce. Penne rigate has a ridged surface, while penne lisce is smooth. The term 'penne' typically refers to the ridged penne rigate. Penne lisce, also known as mostaccioli, is the smooth version of penne.

4. What is penne pasta traditionally served with?

Traditionally, penne pasta is cooked al dente and served with sauces such as pesto, marinara, or arrabbiata. Its shape and texture make it well-suited for holding and capturing the flavors of these sauces.

5. What's the difference between penne and ziti?

Penne and ziti are similar pasta shapes, but they have a few key differences. While both are cylindrical, ziti is smooth and cut into straight tubes, while penne is cut diagonally with a pointed edge and has ridges on the outside. The ridges of penne help it hold onto sauces better than ziti.

6. How long should you boil penne pasta?

The cooking time for penne pasta depends on its size. Very small penne, like macaroni or fusilli, may cook in 5 to 7 minutes. Larger shapes, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, may require 10 to 12 minutes. It is important to cook penne pasta al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. After boiling, drain the pasta and refresh it in cold water.

Editor's Notes

During our penne pastum research, we found 24 penne pastum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 78,833 customer reviews through our big data system to write the penne pasta list. We found that most customers choose penne pasta with an average price of $13.19.

The penne pasta are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of penne pasta, including Barilla, De Cecco, Rummo, Rustichella d'Abruzzo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Penne Pasta Comparison Table

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Brand Barilla Barilla Barilla Barilla De Cecco Rummo Rummo Barilla Barilla Rustichella d'Abruzzo
Variety Penne Penne Penne Penne Penne Rigate,Penne,Spring Penne Rigate Penne Rigate Penne Penne Penne
Item Weight 16 Ounces 0.01 Ounces 7 Ounces 0.01 Ounces 0.01 Ounces 1 Pounds 500 Grams 16 Ounces 1.64 ounces 17 Ounces
Package Information Pack,Tube-shape - Pack Pack Can Pack Bag Box Pack Bag
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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