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Rigatoni Substitute for Penne Pasta: Exact Ratio

Looking for a penne pasta substitute? Rigatoni works as a direct replacement. Use 1:1 in any recipe that calls for penne pasta. This swap works best for baked pasta, meat sauces, hearty dishes.

Best Substitute

Rigatoni

1:1

Larger tubes with ridges. Holds even more sauce and is better for very chunky or meaty sauces.

VeganThis substitute is vegan-friendlyBaked pastaMeat saucesHearty dishes

Tips When Replacing Penne Pasta in Recipes

Penne rigate (ridged) holds sauce better than penne lisce (smooth). For baked pasta dishes, slightly undercook penne by 2 minutes before assembling, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Reserve pasta water to thin sauces as needed.

What Is Penne Pasta and Why Substitute It?

A tube-shaped pasta with diagonal cuts at each end and a ridged or smooth exterior. Penne's hollow center and ridges are designed to trap and hold chunky sauces. It is one of the most versatile pasta shapes for baked dishes, salads, and hearty sauces.

Rigatoni is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of penne pasta. For a complete list of penne pasta substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full penne pasta substitute page.

What Else Can I Use Instead of Penne Pasta?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rigatoni instead of penne pasta?

Yes, you can use rigatoni as a substitute for penne pasta. Use 1:1. Larger tubes with ridges. Holds even more sauce and is better for very chunky or meaty sauces.

How much rigatoni equals penne pasta?

Use 1:1 to replace penne pasta with rigatoni. Works best for baked pasta, meat sauces, hearty dishes.

What is the best substitute for penne pasta?

Rigatoni is a popular substitute for penne pasta. Use 1:1 for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our penne pasta substitute page.

Is rigatoni a vegan substitute for penne pasta?

Yes, rigatoni is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to penne pasta. Use 1:1.