If you are craving a pasta meal that is comforting, creamy, and bursting with vibrant flavors, you are going to love this Penne Rosa Recipe. This dish perfectly balances a luscious tomato-cream sauce with the earthy goodness of mushrooms and fresh spinach, all coated over perfectly al dente penne pasta. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds an irresistible savory touch that turns this simple recipe into an indulgent yet approachable dinner – ideal for weeknights or anytime you want a fuss-free yet impressive meal on the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to elevating this Penne Rosa Recipe from ordinary to extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role in building rich flavor, velvety texture, and appealing color.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce with every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle depth and helps sauté the garlic and mushrooms beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a hint of spice.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Brings an earthy note and satisfying texture to contrast the softness of the pasta.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a healthy burst of nutrients.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Provides the classic tomato base that blends seamlessly with cream.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its signature richness and smooth consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just enough gentle heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a balanced spice to round out the seasoning.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for that irresistible cheesy, savory punch.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the final sauce and adds a silky finish.
- Chopped basil for garnish (optional): Brings freshness and a lovely aromatic topping to the dish.
How to Make Penne Rosa Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Start by boiling your penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it is perfectly al dente; this usually takes about 9 to 11 minutes. Remember to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining—it’s a simple trick that helps you adjust the sauce’s consistency later on and create that beautifully silky finish.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking them until they soften and develop a light golden brown color. This step infuses the dish with a fragrant, earthy base that you won’t want to skip.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Next, toss in the fresh spinach and cook it just until it wilts. The spinach’s vibrant green will brighten your sauce, and its subtle sweetness adds a delicate balance to the creamy components.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors marry. The creamy tomato sauce is the heart of this recipe—rich, luscious, and perfectly spiced.
Step 5: Finish with Butter and Parmesan
Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until the butter melts and the sauce becomes exquisitely creamy. This finishing touch gives the sauce a velvety texture and that signature tangy depth from the cheese.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the sauce and toss everything to ensure every piece of pasta is coated luxuriously. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water—it’s the secret to achieving a perfectly sauced dish every time.
How to Serve Penne Rosa Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Penne Rosa Recipe look as good as it tastes, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan on top along with freshly chopped basil if you have it on hand. The basil adds a refreshing pop of color and aroma that brings the whole dish alive.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides simple to let the pasta shine. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread brushed with butter and herbs complement this creamy pasta beautifully without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Penne Rosa Recipe in warm, hollowed-out mini bread bowls or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for added crunch. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze on top to give it a gourmet flair that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the next day’s meal even more delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the Penne Rosa Recipe if needed. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of fresh spinach may become softer upon thawing, but the flavor remains fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is wonderful for holding the sauce, rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle would work beautifully if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this Penne Rosa Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly as long as you use a marinara sauce without meat. You can keep it vegetarian or add cooked chicken or shrimp if you want some extra protein.
How can I make this dish less creamy?
If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. It will still be delicious but with fewer calories.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can definitely make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, just reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
What is the best way to spice up this Penne Rosa Recipe?
Feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Smoked paprika is another great option to deepen the flavor without too much heat.
Final Thoughts
This Penne Rosa Recipe has quickly become one of my cozy go-to dinners thanks to its rich, comforting flavors and surprisingly easy preparation. Whether you are feeding family or just craving a little self-care in food form, this creamy pasta dish is guaranteed to satisfy. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I enjoy sharing it—grab your penne, and let’s get cooking!
Print
Penne Rosa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Penne Rosa is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring penne pasta tossed in a rich sauce made from marinara, heavy cream, garlic, mushrooms, and fresh spinach. Enhanced with Parmesan cheese and a hint of red pepper flakes, this quick and easy stovetop recipe makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Chopped basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are softened and lightly browned.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, then add the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the butter and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve: Plate the pasta while warm, topping with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped basil if desired.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
- To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of red pepper flakes used.
