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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Penne with Spinach

creamy sun-dried tomato penne - featured image
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A quick and easy creamy penne pasta dish featuring tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
  • 1/2 cup (75 grams) chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
  • 4 cups (120 grams) fresh baby spinach
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-11 minutes). Drain, reserving 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  3. Add 1/2 cup (75 grams) chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes to release their flavor.
  4. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
  6. Gradually stir in 4 cups (120 grams) fresh baby spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted.
  7. Season sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
  8. Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss gently to coat with sauce. Warm through for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente is best. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Keep cream at a gentle simmer to prevent separation. Add spinach last to keep it bright and tender. Freshly grate Parmesan for best melt and flavor. For a smoky twist, add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream and use vegan Parmesan alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy penne, sun-dried tomato pasta, spinach pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/creamy-sun-dried-tomato-penne-with-spinach-easy-comfort-meal-recipe/