When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, rich, and satisfying experience of a well-prepared pasta. This creamy penne pasta is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious meal that pleases the palate and warms the soul. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weekday dinner or preparing a dish for family and friends, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
The key to this dish lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors. The creaminess of the sauce comes from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which create a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to the penne pasta. The addition of onions and garlic provides a depth of flavor, while the broth adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall taste. This recipe also allows for versatility—whether you choose to enjoy it as is or customize it with additional ingredients like grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 300g (10.5 oz) penne pasta: Penne is ideal for creamy sauces because its ridges and tube shape hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a balance to the butter, preventing it from burning and adding a slight fruitiness to the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Onions add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory flavor.
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream: The backbone of the creamy sauce, giving it its rich and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth: Adds flavor and helps to thin out the sauce slightly, making it more palatable.
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional): Adds a hint of earthiness and complements the other flavors in the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright note to the finished dish.
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—cooked through but still firm to the bite. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large pan, melt the unsalted butter with the olive oil over medium heat. The combination of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle complexity to the flavor. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The onions should not brown; they should simply sweat and release their sweetness.
- Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Garlic burns easily, so be sure to keep an eye on it and stir frequently. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
- Make it Creamy:
- Pour the heavy cream into the pan, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer—avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate. Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, thickening it and adding a savory, salty flavor.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and the optional dried Italian herbs. The amount of seasoning can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the pan with the sauce. Use a pair of tongs or a spoon to toss the pasta, ensuring that every piece is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the creamy penne pasta to serving bowls or a large serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts nicely with the richness of the dish.
- Serve the pasta hot, alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is still warm and creamy.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce and provides a more satisfying texture.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can be coated in anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Customize the Dish: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a more substantial meal.
This creamy penne pasta is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that is both comforting and indulgent. Its rich, velvety sauce paired with perfectly cooked pasta makes it a dish that you’ll want to return to time and time again. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a dish for entertaining guests, this pasta is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and experience the magic of creamy pasta done right!
