Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce

This Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of heavy cream with the earthy flavors of fresh spinach and the sweetness of roasted red peppers. The dish is simple to make but packed with flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and basil adds a layer of depth that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Dreamy: The luscious cream sauce, combined with the richness of roasted red peppers, gives this pasta a velvety texture that’s irresistible.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with fresh spinach, this dish is a great choice for those looking for a meatless meal that still feels hearty and filling.
• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious and satisfying in no time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Simply cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
• Perfect for All Ages: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you dive into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large Pot: For boiling the penne pasta to perfection.
• Large Skillet or Pan: To cook the spinach, roasted red peppers, and garlic, and to combine the creamy sauce.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked.
• Grater: To grate the Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor!).
• Chef’s Knife: For chopping the garlic, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, dreamy dish (exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below):

• Penne Pasta: The star of the dish! Penne holds the creamy sauce well and provides the perfect texture to complement the other ingredients.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic and spinach, adding a rich, smooth flavor to the dish.
• Cloves of Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds a savory, aromatic foundation to the sauce.
• Fresh Spinach: Packed with nutrients, spinach wilts beautifully in the hot pan and adds both color and flavor.
• Roasted Red Peppers (chopped): Sweet and smoky, roasted red peppers bring a burst of flavor to the sauce. You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience or roast your own.
• Heavy Cream: The key ingredient for creating the rich, creamy texture of the sauce. It’s the base that ties everything together.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For extra flavor and creaminess. Parmesan adds a sharp, savory note that balances the sweetness of the roasted red peppers.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. These will help enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh Basil: For garnish. Basil adds a fresh, herbal note that completes the dish beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 9-11 minutes for al dente pasta. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Once the garlic is sautéed, add the fresh spinach to the pan. Stir frequently as the spinach wilts down. This should only take about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will shrink significantly, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first!

3. Add the Roasted Red Peppers

Next, add the chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Stir to combine and let them heat through for another 2-3 minutes. The roasted red peppers will add a lovely sweetness and smoky flavor to the dish.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

Once the spinach and peppers are cooked, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes. The cream will thicken slightly, creating a rich sauce.

Now, add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to melt the cheese into the sauce. The Parmesan will thicken the sauce even more and give it a deep, savory flavor. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed to adjust the seasoning.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and make it smoother. Continue stirring until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Variations for Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce

If you’re looking to switch things up or add a unique twist to this classic dish, here are some fun and easy variations you can try:

1. Add Protein

• Chicken: Grilled or sautéed chicken breasts or thighs can be added to the dish for an extra protein boost. Slice it thin and toss it into the pasta for a satisfying meal.
• Shrimp: For a lighter touch, add shrimp to the skillet when sautéing the garlic. They cook quickly and pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon crumbles are a fantastic addition for those who love a little extra crunch and smoky flavor.

2. Swap the Pasta

• Whole Wheat Penne: For a healthier alternative, swap the regular penne for whole wheat penne. It provides a bit more fiber while still delivering that familiar pasta texture.
• Gluten-Free Penne: If you’re gluten intolerant, you can easily substitute the penne for gluten-free pasta. The recipe will still be just as delicious!
• Zucchini Noodles: Looking for a low-carb version? Try using zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of traditional pasta. They’re light and pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

3. Make It Vegan

• Non-Dairy Cream: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream for a vegan-friendly version.
• Vegan Cheese: Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Skip the Parmesan: If you’re avoiding all dairy, you can simply skip the Parmesan or replace it with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory flavor.

4. Add More Veggies

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Mushrooms: If you love mushrooms, sauté them along with the garlic and spinach. They’ll add an earthy, savory element to the dish.
• Broccoli: Toss in some steamed broccoli for an extra serving of veggies and a bit of crunch.

5. Spice It Up

• Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Hot Sauce: For an extra layer of spice, drizzle a little bit of your favorite hot sauce over the pasta just before serving.
• Jalapeños: Add fresh chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a bold and fiery flavor.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is mixed with the creamy spinach and roasted red pepper sauce, it’s time to plate up. Spoon the pasta onto serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and freshness. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan on top for that final cheesy touch.

7. Enjoy!

This creamy, savory pasta dish is now ready to be enjoyed! Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad, it’s sure to impress. The combination of tender pasta, rich cream sauce, fresh spinach, and roasted red peppers is a winning combination everyone will love.

Serving Suggestions for Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with pasta. The buttery, garlicky flavor of fresh garlic bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers make for a colorful and healthy side dish.
• Crusty Bread: If you prefer bread over salad, opt for a rustic, crusty loaf of bread to mop up the creamy sauce.

Storing Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce

This dish can easily be made ahead of time or stored for later. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Leftovers:

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through.

Freezing:

• Freezing the Pasta: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. For best results, freeze the sauce and pasta separately, as the sauce may separate slightly after thawing.
• Reheating Frozen Pasta: Thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet with a little extra cream or water to bring the sauce back to life.

Nutrition Information (Optional)

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for a serving of this creamy, delicious pasta dish:

Nutrition	Amount Per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	40mg
Sodium	250mg
Total Carbohydrates	55g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	5g
Protein	12g
Vitamin A	30%
Vitamin C	20%
Calcium	15%
Iron	10%

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Conclusion

This Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce is a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this creamy pasta dish has it all. The combination of fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, and Parmesan creates a flavor-packed experience, while the cream sauce ties everything together in a velvety, dreamy way.

You can easily customize this dish by adding protein, swapping the pasta, or making it vegan, ensuring that it can cater to a variety of dietary preferences. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to wow seasoned cooks. Don’t forget to try it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for the perfect meal!

So go ahead, give this recipe a try. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!

Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce FAQs

Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?

Yes, jarred roasted red peppers are perfect for this recipe and save you time!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! You can swap the penne for gluten-free pasta and still enjoy the creamy sauce.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add some heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when making the cream sauce.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.