Are you ready to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet Italian feast? This Three Cheese and Herb Penne is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that combines the creamy richness of three luxurious cheeses with the vibrant freshness of herbs. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Prepare to elevate your pasta game and become the home chef everyone raves about!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Finely chop fresh basil and parsley, and add them to the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then gently mix until well combined.
- When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Immediately return the hot pasta to the pot and add the cheese and herb mixture. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamy consistency.
- Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- If desired, place under a broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese topping.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve hot.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously—it should taste like the sea to properly season the pasta from within.
- Cook pasta al dente (firm to the bite) as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps create a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
- For extra flavor, toast the herbs lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the cheese mixture to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- If you want a golden, crispy top, don't skip the optional broiling step—it adds a delightful texture and beautiful color to the dish.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible; they make a significant difference in the overall flavor profile of the recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
