Barilla penne pasta lands in your bowl like playful little tubes ready to soak up every drop of rich tomato basil goodness. Garlic sizzles softly in olive oil, blending with sun ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of chili flakes that add gentle warmth. The sauce hugs each piece of pasta, turning a simple dish into pure comfort. Finish with a scatter of toasted breadcrumbs for irresistible crunch, and you have an easy weeknight meal that feels cozy and full of flavor. With barilla penne pasta at the center, this vibrant, no fuss recipe is sure to become a new household favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This barilla penne pasta
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile and pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings.
- Made from high-quality durum wheat for a delightful al dente texture.
- Kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in veggies.
- Brings authentic Italian flavor to your table with every bite.

barilla penne pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Boil the Water – Bring water to a rolling boil in a large pot over high heat. Make sure to use plenty of water for the pasta to cook evenly.
- Step 2: Add Salt and Olive Oil – Add a generous pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil to the boiling water. This will enhance the flavor of your pasta.
- Step 3: Cook the Pasta – Stir in the Barilla penne pasta. Cook uncovered for 11 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
- Step 4: Drain and Serve – Drain the pasta in a colander. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or seasoning. Enjoy your delicious Barilla penne pasta!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 2g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbs | 42g |
Ingredients
Get ready to whip up a delicious dish with these simple ingredients for Barilla Penne Pasta!

- 1 package Barilla penne pasta – your main ingredient for a hearty meal
- 4 quarts water – for boiling the pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt – to season the pasta water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for that rich flavor
How to Make Barilla Penne Pasta
Get ready to whip up a delightful dish of Barilla penne pasta! With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a cooking time of 11 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. No extra baking or resting time is needed, so let’s dive right in!

Step 1: Boil the Water
Bring water to a rolling boil in a large pot over high heat. Make sure to use plenty of water for the pasta to cook evenly.
Step 2: Add Salt and Olive Oil
Add a generous pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil to the boiling water. This will enhance the flavor of your pasta.
If you’re curious about the flavor properties and culinary uses of olive oil, learn more at : olive oil
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the Barilla penne pasta. Cook uncovered for 11 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Drain the pasta in a colander. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or seasoning. Enjoy your delicious Barilla penne pasta!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 11 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 16 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | With your favorite sauce or seasoning |
Pro Tips for Making barilla penne pasta
- Cook pasta al dente for the perfect texture.
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Mix in veggies for added nutrition and color.
- Top with grated cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.
How to Serve this barilla penne pasta
- Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan for a classic touch.
- Pair with a side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal.
- Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Mix in some cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for a Caprese twist.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Enjoy with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea to balance the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store your Barilla penne pasta for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of broth or water.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- For microwave, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How long do you cook Barilla penne pasta?
To cook Barilla penne pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for about 11-13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Remember to check the package instructions for the most accurate cooking time, as it can vary slightly based on your stove and the amount of water used.
2. Is Barilla penne pasta healthy?
Barilla penne pasta can be a healthy choice when enjoyed in moderation. It is made from durum wheat semolina, which provides a good source of carbohydrates and protein. Pair it with plenty of vegetables and a light sauce to create a balanced meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
3. Why did Barilla get sued?
Barilla faced legal issues in the past primarily related to its advertising practices and claims about its products. However, the company has since worked to improve its marketing strategies and ensure transparency in its messaging, focusing on quality and authenticity in its pasta offerings.
4. What is Italy’s #1 brand of pasta?
Barilla is often recognized as Italy’s #1 brand of pasta, known for its high-quality products and wide variety of pasta shapes. The brand has a long-standing reputation for excellence and is a staple in many Italian households and kitchens around the world.
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re as excited to try this Easy Barilla Penne Pasta recipe as we are! It’s a delightful dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Simple to make and oh-so-rewarding, it’s perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every delicious bite!

