Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This creamy pasta with Gorgonzola recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal. It's surprisingly simple to make, yet bursting with rich, complex flavors that will impress even the most discerning palates. Get ready to elevate your pasta night with this homemade culinary masterpiece – a true testament to the magic of simple, delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled (more to taste, if desired!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch and flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be lightly golden.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the Gorgonzola sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and walnuts (if using).
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated pasta dish!
Cooking Tips for the Best Pasta with Gorgonzola:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Use good quality Gorgonzola: The flavor of the cheese is the star of this dish, so choose a high-quality Gorgonzola for the best results.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more pasta water. For a thicker sauce, use less.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg: A dash of freshly grated nutmeg enhances the creamy, savory flavors.
- Experiment with other nuts: Pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
Variations:
- Spicy Gorgonzola Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Vegetarian Gorgonzola Pasta: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Chicken Gorgonzola Pasta: Add cooked chicken breast to the pasta for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy recipe is perfect for a healthy and quick dinner, proving that healthy meals don't have to be boring! Enjoy this delicious pasta dish as a simple weeknight meal or a delightful treat for a special occasion. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, showcasing the best of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking.