10 Best Penne Pasta Dishes 2025 in the United States

Barilla Ready Pasta Penne is a convenient option for those looking for a quick and easy pasta dish. It comes in a pack of 7 pouches, each containing 7 ounces of fully cooked penne pasta. This product stands out for its simplicity and speed, being ready to eat in just 60 seconds after microwaving.

The pasta is made with just three basic ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and Barilla pasta, ensuring a clean and straightforward taste. The 'al dente' texture is a strong point, as it maintains the quality one would expect from Barilla pasta without the need for boiling or straining. Additionally, the pasta is crafted from non-GMO ingredients, catering to those who are health-conscious or have dietary preferences regarding genetically modified organisms.

This pasta is best suited for individuals who prioritize convenience and are willing to customize their dish with additional toppings and sauces. While it saves time and effort, it may not meet the needs of those looking for a more complex or flavorful pasta experience straight out of the pouch.

Barilla Gluten Free Penne Pasta offers a practical solution for those who need or prefer gluten-free options without sacrificing taste or texture. Made primarily from corn and rice, this pasta provides an al dente texture that closely mimics traditional pasta, making it enjoyable for the whole family. It is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sauces, including meat, vegetable, cheese, oil, and butter-based options, which makes it suitable for multiple recipes and preferences.

Additionally, this pasta is free from major allergens like fish, lactose, peanuts, shellfish, tree nuts, and soy, making it a safe choice for individuals with diverse dietary restrictions. It is also vegan and vegetarian-friendly, adding to its broad appeal. Cooking is straightforward, achieving perfect al dente in just 10-11 minutes.

However, being a gluten-free product, some users might notice a slight difference in texture compared to wheat-based pasta. Also, while it is designed to be a close substitute for traditional pasta, those with specific taste preferences might need a period of adjustment. The pack includes eight 12-ounce boxes, ensuring you have plenty on hand for multiple meals. With its non-GMO ingredients and allergy-friendly composition, Barilla's Gluten Free Penne Pasta is a strong contender in the gluten-free pasta market.

Chickapea Organic Chickpea Pasta - Penne offers a unique variation to the traditional pasta dish, using only chickpeas and yellow peas as ingredients, making it a healthier, gluten-free option. This pasta is particularly beneficial for those looking to boost their protein intake, as it contains 24g of plant-based protein per serving, comparable to meat or fish. Additionally, it has 8g of fiber which aids in digestion.

While it doesn’t come with a sauce, vegetables, cheese, or spices, its versatility allows you to pair it with any preferred sauces and ingredients to create a balanced meal. Cooking is straightforward and similar to regular pasta, so you can prepare it quickly for an easy, nutritious meal. A highlight is its commitment to social responsibility, with the brand donating nutritious food to communities in need.

However, if you prefer the exact taste and texture of traditional wheat pasta, the difference might be noticeable. This pasta is ideal for health-conscious individuals or those with dietary restrictions seeking a nutritious alternative to traditional penne. The pack of 6 boxes is convenient for regular use but may be too much if you’re trying it out for the first time.