Craving that creamy, dreamy Penne Rosa from Noodles & Company? That irresistible blend of spicy tomato cream sauce, perfectly cooked penne, and savory Parmesan cheese? You don't have to wait for your next takeout trip! This recipe will guide you through making a delicious homemade version, right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and guaranteed to satisfy those cravings for a comforting, flavorful, healthy meal. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients: A Pantry-Friendly List
This Penne Rosa recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Cooking Process
This recipe is designed for ease and speed. Even beginner cooks can master this quick dinner idea!
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, 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.
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Build the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Creamy Perfection: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Penne Rosa
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is key! It should be firm to the bite.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more!
- Fresh Herbs Elevate the Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley really brightens up the dish.
- Make it Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Cheese it Up: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: Add sauteed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Creamy Variations: Try using a different cream, such as half-and-half or crème fraîche, for a lighter sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This delicious Penne Rosa recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of creamy richness and spicy warmth. It's a simple yet impressive dish perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Enjoy!