One of the joys of pasta is its versatility— with different sauces and shapes, you can create something new every time. But when it comes to Ziti vs. Penne, which is the best choice?
What is the difference between ziti and penne? What is the similarity between them?
From far away, the two tubular pasta shapes may look similar. Look closer, though, and you’ll find a multitude of differences: while penne typically has angled ends and textured ridges, ziti has straight ends and a smoother exterior. Ziti also tends to be shorter and thicker than penne.
Given their similar tube shape, both pastas are great for soaking up sauces in their nooks and crannies. Bite-sized, both give you a great opportunity to create something satisfying and delicious!
What is ziti pasta typically used for? What sauces or styles go well with ziti?
Ziti pasta is traditionally served as the first course at a wedding, which goes to show its hearty nature and popularity. Because it tends to be thicker, the most well-known dish is baked ziti: with marinara sauce and multiple cheeses, this recipe has earned the golden star of being considered comfort food. Ziti’s shape and size makes it the ideal pasta to hold onto the cheesy sauce and still easy to eat.
Another great use of ziti is to pair it with meat or meat alternatives: whether you’re looking at ground beef, sausage, or meatballs, ziti carries these additions and makes every bite uniquely delicious.
Because of its thicker nature, baked dishes and heavier sauces are a great pairing for ziti pasta.
What is penne pasta typically used for? What sauces or styles go well with penne?
Penne is one of the most well-known pasta shapes, and for good reason. A popular recipe is penne alla vodka—with creamy tomato sauce and distinctive flavor, penne soaks up the sauce well. It’s also often used in cold pasta salads or lighter pasta dishes, creating great pairings with caprese. Penne holds up well when chilled, which makes it ever more versatile and a great idea for casual and elaborate dishes alike.
While there is no rulebook, penne pasta is delicious in a variety of different situations, making it a great option for light and heavy sauces alike.
Ultimately, what are the most important things to consider when picking a pasta shape?
Considering the sauce you have in mind is a great starting point: both ziti and penne are tubular, making them great for sauces and additions that should be tasted in every bite. Other pasta shapes, such as spaghetti or angel hair, can have a completely different take on the same sauce.
With this in mind, thinking about texture in each bite is another great way to decide between pasta shapes. Whether you want a lighter bite or something more satisfying, the size and length of each pasta shape can make a difference. If you’re dining with little ones, considering mess-free pasta shapes is also another option! (For something both fun and no-fuss: bowtie pasta is a great idea for kids.)
Lastly, think about the preparation process: Will you be baking this dish? How long will it take to cook? Do you want to eat leftovers tomorrow? If so, will the pasta shape still be delicious in the morning?
As always with pasta, you have a combination of creative direction and tradition—we can’t wait to hear about the delicious dishes you create!
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