Quick answer
Choose brown rice penne for chunky sauces and baked dishes; choose brown rice elbows for creamy sauces, soups, and mac and cheese.
Brown Rice Elbows
Shape matters more than you think
Brown rice pasta shapes aren't just about looks — they change how sauce clings, how evenly the pasta cooks, and what texture you get in each bite. Penne's tubular shape with angled ends grabs onto thicker sauces, while elbows' small curves trap creamy or brothy liquids differently.
Both shapes are made from the same brown rice base, so nutrition and cooking time are nearly identical. The real difference comes down to the dish you're making and the texture you prefer.
When penne wins
Penne is your go-to for hearty, chunky sauces — think marinara with vegetables, pesto, or a baked casserole. The hollow center and ridges (if ridged) hold onto bits of sauce and cheese, giving you flavor in every forkful. It also holds up well in leftovers without turning mushy.
When elbows take the lead
Elbows are the classic choice for creamy sauces, cheese sauces, and soups. Their small curved shape nestles into each other, creating pockets that catch thick cheese sauce or broth. They're also a favorite for cold pasta salads because the shape stays distinct even when chilled.
Penne vs Elbows: Trade-offs at a glance
- Sauce grip: Penne's hollow center and angled ends trap chunky sauces and bits of vegetables or meat. Elbows' small curves hold creamy sauces and broths well but let thin sauces slide off.
- Texture and bite: Penne offers a firmer, more substantial chew that stays al dente longer. Elbows are softer and more tender, which works well in soups and one-pot meals. For a firmer bite, choose penne; for a softer, more kid-friendly texture, go with elbows.
- Best cooking methods: Penne excels in baked dishes, casseroles, and pasta salads where it needs to hold shape. Elbows are perfect for stovetop mac and cheese, soups, and cold salads where they blend into the dish.
Product facts
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Brown Rice Penne: Crafted for that classic pasta taste and texture with none of the gluten, this pasta pairs well with protein (like beans!) and serves up delicious leftovers. Penne's sturdy shape makes it ideal for reheating — it holds its al dente bite even on day two.
Brown Rice Penne
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Brown Rice Pasta Variety Pack: In this variety case, you'll receive 2 boxes of Brown Rice Penne, 2 boxes of Brown Rice Rotini, and 2 boxes of Brown Rice Elbows. If you can't decide, the variety pack lets you test both shapes (plus rotini) without committing to a full box of one.
Which shape fits your dish?
Best for
- Hearty chunky sauces and baked casseroles – choose penne
- Creamy cheese sauces and soups – choose elbows
Not for
- Thin, watery sauces with either shape – both will let the sauce pool at the bottom
