Craving a creamy, comforting dish that transports your taste buds straight to Italy? Look no further than this Copycat Noodles and Company Penne Rosa! With its rich marinara sauce, luscious heavy cream, and vibrant spinach, this pasta dish is not just a meal; it's an experience. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to impress your dinner guests or simply indulge in a delicious bowl of pasta? Let's dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen the new go-to spot for Italian cuisine!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with garlic. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Slowly stir in heavy cream, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth, pink-hued sauce. Allow sauce to gently simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
- Drain cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case sauce needs thinning.
- Add drained pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to completely coat each noodle with the creamy marinara mixture.
- Fold in fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach begins to wilt but remains vibrant green.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, stirring to incorporate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Plate the pasta, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the penne pasta al dente for the best texture. Follow the package directions closely, and don’t forget to salt the boiling water for added flavor!
- Garlic Alert: When sautéing the minced garlic, keep a close eye on it. It can go from fragrant to burnt in seconds, so stir continuously for the perfect aroma without the bitterness.
- Creamy Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick after adding the pasta, don’t hesitate to use that reserved pasta water! Just a splash can help achieve the desired creamy consistency.
- Fresh Spinach: For the best flavor and nutrition, use fresh spinach instead of frozen. It wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color to your dish.
- Cheese It Up: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan! A generous sprinkle not only enhances flavor but also adds a delightful creaminess to the dish.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
