There’s something so comforting and indulgent about a pasta dish that combines creamy textures with bright, fresh flavors. This Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce recipe delivers just that – a balanced blend of creaminess from the sauce, a hint of earthiness from the spinach, and the sweet, slightly smoky taste of roasted red peppers. It’s the kind of meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but delicious enough to impress family and friends.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy yet light: The combination of heavy cream with the slightly tangy roasted red peppers creates a sauce that feels indulgent without being overly rich.
Quick and easy: This entire meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Packed with flavor: Between the garlic, Parmesan, and roasted red peppers, this pasta is bursting with flavor, while the fresh basil adds an herby, aromatic finish.
Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe is completely vegetarian but hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
The Taste of This Dish
Imagine the rich, slightly nutty flavor of Parmesan melting into heavy cream, infused with a bit of garlic. Add to that the slight tang and subtle smokiness of roasted red peppers – a perfect contrast to the delicate taste of wilted spinach. Together, these flavors coat the penne pasta in a sauce that’s creamy yet layered with depth, giving you an exciting taste with every bite!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for making the sauce
- Strainer for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Add protein: For more protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
- Extra veggies: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini make excellent additions.
- Dairy-free option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep the sauce creamy and flavorful.
How to Make Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Spinach
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
3. Add Roasted Red Peppers
Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and cook for another 2 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and slightly soften the peppers.
4. Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing until each piece of pasta is well-coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
6. Serve
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. This adds a pop of color and a delightful herbal note to the finished dish.
What to Serve with This Pasta Dish
This pasta is quite filling on its own, but if you’re looking to make it a full Italian-inspired meal, here are a few ideas:
- Side Salad: A fresh side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette pairs perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread or focaccia is ideal for mopping up that delicious sauce.
- Wine pairing: A light, crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will complement the creamy sauce and roasted red peppers.
Tips for Perfecting This Pasta Dish
- Don’t overcook the garlic: It only needs about a minute to become fragrant. Cooking it too long will make it bitter.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a more authentic Italian flavor.
- Adjust the sauce: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up for better coating.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce seems too thick when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to a creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta you like. This sauce pairs well with penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or any pasta that can hold a creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine just before serving.
What if I don’t have roasted red peppers?
If you don’t have jarred roasted red peppers, you can roast your own by charring whole red bell peppers over an open flame or in the oven. Once blackened, peel the skin, remove the seeds, and chop.
Final Thoughts
This Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce is a cozy, delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s quick, creamy, and packed with flavor – a real crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or an intimate gathering, this pasta dish is sure to impress.
Love this recipe? I’ve got more like it! Check out our other pasta creations, like our Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta or Classic Basil Pesto Pasta – perfect for satisfying those pasta cravings!
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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 470
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
