Save A rich, velvety pasta dish featuring sautéed mushrooms and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious cream sauce, all tossed with penne for a comforting one-skillet meal.
This dish quickly became a favorite for busy weeknights when I wanted something hearty yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) penne pasta
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp olive oil, 250 g (9 oz) cremini or button mushrooms sliced, 100 g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil drained and sliced, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 60 g (2 cups) fresh baby spinach
- Sauce: 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 120 ml (½ cup) vegetable broth, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), Salt and pepper to taste, Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh basil leaves torn, Additional grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) of cooking water then drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 5 minutes until golden and softened.
- Step 3:
- Add onion and cook for 2 minutes then stir in garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes more stirring occasionally.
- Step 5:
- Lower the heat to medium. Pour in heavy cream and vegetable broth stirring to combine. Add Italian herbs salt pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Step 7:
- Add the cooked penne and spinach to the skillet. Toss well to coat adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Step 8:
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Save Preparing this meal brought my family together around the table for a cozy dinner filled with laughter and stories.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream Parmesan) and gluten (pasta). For gluten-free or dairy-free needs use appropriate substitutes and check product labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories 520, Total Fat 24 g, Carbohydrates 60 g, Protein 17 g per serving
Save This creamy penne is a perfect blend of flavors that comes together in just one skillet for easy cleanup.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be substituted to accommodate dietary needs without compromising texture or flavor.
- → What type of mushrooms work best here?
Cremini or button mushrooms offer a mild, earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added to enhance protein content and create a more filling meal.
- → Can I replace the spinach with another green?
Yes, arugula or kale are excellent alternatives, adding distinct flavors and nutrients.
- → How do I keep the sauce creamy without it becoming too thick?
Reserve some pasta cooking water and gradually add it while tossing to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.