Save A rich, velvety pasta dish featuring sautéed mushrooms and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious cream sauce, all tossed with penne for a comforting one skillet meal.
I have always enjoyed making this creamy penne skillet as it combines robust Italian inspired flavors with easy preparation perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) penne pasta
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp olive oil 250 g (9 oz) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced 100 g (3.5 oz) sun dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped 60 g (2 cups) fresh baby spinach
- Sauce: 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream 120 ml (½ cup) vegetable broth 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme) Salt and pepper, to taste Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh basil leaves, torn Additional grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) of cooking water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 5 minutes until golden and softened.
- Step 3:
- Add onion and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add sun dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes more, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5:
- Lower the heat to medium. Pour in heavy cream and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Add Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Step 7:
- Add the cooked penne and spinach to the skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Step 8:
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Save This recipe always brings my family together especially when shared alongside a crisp glass of white wine on cozy evenings.
Notes
Substitute gluten free pasta for a gluten free version. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a non vegetarian option. Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Colander Wooden spoon or spatula Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan) and gluten (pasta) For gluten free or dairy free needs, use appropriate substitutes and check product labels.
Save This creamy sun dried tomato mushroom penne skillet is the perfect blend of ease and flavor for any pasta lover.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne pasta holds the creamy sauce well, but rigatoni or ziti can also be good substitutes.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same intense flavor; however, roasting fresh tomatoes can add a similar depth.
- → How do I keep the sauce creamy without it separating?
Simmer the sauce gently after adding cream and avoid boiling. Using reserved pasta water helps maintain smooth consistency.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives to create a vegan version.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor profile here?
A blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme complements the mushrooms and tomatoes perfectly.