Penne Pasta with an Herbed Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta night with this indulgent Penne Pasta with an Herbed Cream Sauce! Perfectly al dente penne is coated in a luxuriously creamy sauce made with butter, heavy cream, and milk, enhanced by the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley, along with a hint of dried thyme, infuse this dish with vibrant, aromatic flavors, while a touch of garlic and optional red pepper flakes add depth and subtle heat. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad for an unforgettable meal that's sure to impress.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking constantly to form a paste. Cook the mixture for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. The sauce will thicken as it simmers.
Add the fresh basil, parsley, dried thyme, salt, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the saucepan with the herbed cream sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
724 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.7 g | 70% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.0 g | 165% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 162 mg | 54% | |
| Sodium | 935 mg | 41% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.9 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 15.6 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 312 mg | 24% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 179 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
