If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, you’re in for a treat. This Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe is bursting with rich flavors, vibrant veggies, and just the right hint of spice that makes every bite memorable. The luscious tomato and cream sauce meld perfectly with tender penne pasta, creating a dish that’s comforting yet bright, simple yet elegant—ideal for weeknights or impressing friends without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that bring the Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe to life. From fresh veggies to savory seasonings, every component counts.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy, luscious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fragrant base to sauté the garlic and veggies with a lovely richness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): The aromatic powerhouse that kickstarts the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): Brings just a touch of heat to brighten the sauce.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, they add depth and texture.
- 1 zucchini (halved and sliced): Keeps things fresh and light with a subtle crunch.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Wilts down to add vibrant color and a boost of nutrition.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or 2 1/2 cups homemade tomato sauce: The heart of the dish, grounding all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates that signature creamy texture and mellow richness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, salty notes that elevate the entire dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): A fragrant finishing touch that adds freshness and color.
How to Make Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Perfectly
Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente—meaning it has a firm bite that holds up well to the sauce. Save half a cup of the pasta water before draining; that starchy liquid is magical for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful fragrance. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and zucchini, cooking them until they soften up and develop some caramelized color—around 5 to 6 minutes. Finish by stirring in the fresh spinach and letting it wilt gently for about a minute.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Rosa Sauce
Pour your marinara sauce into the skillet and bring it up to a simmer, letting those flavors meld. Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This is where the sauce gets that silky, indulgent texture. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste, balancing acidity and richness beautifully.
Step 4: Toss Pasta into the Sauce
Now, add your cooked penne to the sauce and give everything a good toss so each piece is well coated. If you find the sauce is a bit too thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect, velvety consistency. This little trick makes the dish wonderfully saucy without being heavy.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Plate your creamy penne rosa immediately while it’s warm and inviting. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top, and a bit more Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. This final step adds freshness and a pop of color, making the dish look as delightful as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe
Garnishes
Simple fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten up the dish instantly, cutting through the creaminess with a herbaceous note. A few extra shavings or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese also add a wonderful salty finish that enhances each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad adds satisfying crunch and balance. Roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter can also complement the rich sauce beautifully without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe in individual shallow bowls for a rustic, inviting feel. Or, for a fun twist, stuff it inside hollowed-out bell peppers or bake it briefly with a crispy cheese topping to turn it into a cozy casserole. Either way, it’s sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Penne Rosa should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes quite well if you want to prepare in advance. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat with a splash of water or cream to bring back that perfect sauce consistency. Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until heated through. This prevents curdling and keeps the sauce creamy and smooth, just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because its shape grabs the sauce perfectly, other pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would work wonderfully too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian as written. You can easily add cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken if you want to make it more protein-packed, but it tastes fantastic all on its own.
Can I make this Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut or cashew cream, and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to achieve a similar cheesy flavor.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick—you can increase or decrease the amount to suit your heat preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more after tasting.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers without losing creaminess?
Reheat on low heat with a splash of cream or reserved pasta water, stirring often. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming grainy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy homemade classic every time you make it. With its perfect balance of creamy tomato sauce, tender veggies, and just enough spice, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to comfort meal!
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Creamy Penne Rosa Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Penne Rosa is a comforting Italian-inspired vegetarian pasta dish featuring al dente penne tossed in a luscious tomato cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. The addition of garlic and red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick, making it a perfect flavorful weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or 2 1/2 cups homemade tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 zucchini, halved and sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the oil and awaken the spices.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini to the skillet, cooking them for 5 to 6 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Then stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss it thoroughly to coat each piece with the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the Creamy Penne Rosa warm, garnished with fresh chopped basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired, for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.
Notes
- To add protein, stir in cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or plant-based sausage alongside the vegetables.
- For a vegan-friendly version, substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
