When winter rolls in and the evenings start to feel a little colder, there is nothing quite as comforting as sitting down to a bowl of pasta. Penne, in particular, is one of those shapes that feels made for cozy meals. The ridges cling to every bit of sauce, the tubes scoop up roasted veggies, and when the cheese melts over the top—well, that’s when it becomes the kind of dish that makes winter nights worth looking forward to.
In this article, we will share our take on the best winter penne pasta recipe—a dish that is simple to make, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to bring a little extra warmth to your table this season. Whether you are looking for simple penne pasta recipes to make on a weeknight or you want to explore winter pasta recipes healthy enough to enjoy guilt-free, this guide has you covered.
The Recipe: Winter Penne Pasta
This recipe is a balance of comfort and nutrition, perfect for chilly evenings. It features roasted seasonal vegetables, a rich tomato base, and a touch of cream for that satisfying cozy vibe. The penne absorbs every bit of flavor, while fresh herbs keep it bright and refreshing.
Ingredients
For the pasta base
- 12 oz penne pasta (whole-wheat or classic)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or light cream for a healthier version)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the winter vegetables
- 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup kale or spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
For garnish
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
Roast the vegetables
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the squash, broccoli, and red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
Pro Tip: Roasting deepens the natural sweetness of winter vegetables, giving the pasta layers of flavor.
Cook the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, oregano, and thyme; cook for another minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and broth. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cream, stir well, and season with salt and pepper.
Pro Tip: For a healthier winter pasta recipe, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or cashew cream.
Combine everything
- Add the roasted vegetables and cooked penne into the sauce.
- Toss until every piece of pasta is coated.
- Stir in kale or spinach at the end, letting it wilt gently in the heat.
Serve and garnish
- Plate the pasta in warm bowls.
- Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
- Finish with fresh basil or parsley for brightness.
Why This Pasta is Perfect for Winter
What makes this recipe stand out among winter pasta recipes healthy is its balance:
- Seasonal vegetables provide natural sweetness and depth.
- Creamy tomato sauce adds richness without being heavy.
- Penne pasta ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Customizable ingredients make it easy to adapt—swap squash for sweet potatoes, kale for spinach, or add lean protein like grilled chicken.
This pasta is hearty enough to keep you full on a cold night, yet nourishing enough to support a healthy winter diet.
Simple Variations (Because Pasta Should Never Be Boring)
If you’re searching for simple penne pasta recipes that don’t require hours in the kitchen, here are some tweaks you can try with this base recipe:
- Cheesy Winter Pasta: Add extra mozzarella or fontina for a gooey finish.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for more heartiness.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream and skip Parmesan—nutritional yeast makes a great cheesy substitute.
- Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta.
Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s an approximate nutritional profile per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 420–460
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
Pro Tip: Using whole-wheat penne boosts fiber, helping you stay full longer. Adding extra vegetables lowers the calorie density while packing in more nutrients.
Why Winter Pasta Comfort Food Hits Different
There’s something about pasta in the colder months that feels extra satisfying. Unlike lighter summer dishes, winter pasta is rich, warming, and deeply comforting. It fills the house with delicious aromas and brings people together around the dinner table.
Food isn’t just about taste—it’s about memories. Maybe it’s your grandmother’s pasta simmering on a snowy evening, or a cozy café dish enjoyed after a long day. That’s the magic of winter recipes: they go beyond the plate and warm the heart.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this winter special pasta with:
- A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing.
- Garlic bread or focaccia for dipping.
- A glass of red wine (Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully).
For dessert, a simple chocolate lava cake or tiramisu makes the meal truly unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re searching for healthy winter pasta recipes, looking for simple penne pasta recipes, or just craving a big bowl of comfort, this dish has it all. It’s cozy, adaptable, and absolutely delicious.
So this winter, bring a little warmth to your table with this Best Winter Penne Pasta Recipe. One bite, and you’ll understand why pasta will always be the season’s ultimate comfort food.
