Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy penne pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, proving that healthy meals can also be quick dinner ideas. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the ultimate in easy recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked chicken or vegetables (for added protein and nutrients)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
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Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown, as this can make it bitter.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Optional additions: Stir in your cooked chicken or vegetables for a more substantial and nutritious meal.
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Serve immediately: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Penne Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the creamy sauce.
- Use fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that elevates the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Creamy Penne: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.
- Penne with Pesto: Substitute the creamy sauce with your favorite pesto for a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish.
- Vegetarian Creamy Penne: Add sauteed mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Creamy Tomato Penne: Add a can of crushed tomatoes to the sauce for a rich and flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without additions):
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
This creamy penne pasta recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to prepare. It's a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy this best recipes for a truly satisfying and flavorful experience! Remember to adjust the ingredients and spices to suit your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.