Mostaccioli, known in Italy as “Penne Lisce,” are a specialty of the Campania Region in southern Italy which includes the cities of Naples, Capri and Sorrento. Penne, which means “pen” in Italian, gets its name from its shape. Penne are tube-shaped with angled ends cut to resemble a quill or pen point. Unlike penne which are ridged, mostaccioli are smooth in texture. Mostaccioli’s smooth surface brings out the best in any kind of sauce, particularly light and fresh ones. They are designed for chunky tomato, meat and cream sauces. They are also commonly used in baked dishes with tomato sauce and cheese.
