Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then you're in the right place! This recipe recreates the beloved Pasta Milano from Romano's Macaroni Grill, bringing that delicious, creamy, and satisfying dish right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this fantastic homemade pasta dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (linguine or fettuccine work best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
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.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Add the undrained diced tomatoes, thawed spinach, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips for the Best Pasta Milano:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or cheese to suit your preference.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.
- Make it a complete meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Pasta Milano: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Vegetarian Pasta Milano: Omit the meat and add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Creamy Tomato Pasta Milano: Increase the heavy cream to 3/4 cup for an even creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy and delicious Pasta Milano recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the taste of Romano's Macaroni Grill from the comfort of your own home!