Description
8 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 ball burrata cheese
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Directions:
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly
thickened.
Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
Transfer to serving bowls and top with torn burrata cheese. Garnish with fresh basil and lemon zest, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by cooking the penne in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Before draining, carefully reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water—this is crucial for the sauce. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts into the sauce, about 1 minute. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a silky, creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is best served immediately in warm bowls. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp. A crisp, chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.
How-to Summary
Cook and drain pasta, saving some water. Sauté garlic in oil. Simmer cream, then add Parmesan and seasonings to create a sauce. Wilt spinach in the sauce. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, using pasta water to adjust consistency. Serve topped with torn burrata and garnishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes. Short, sturdy shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work well to hold the creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be less thick. You can also use a light cream cheese thinned with a bit of milk.
What can I use instead of burrata? Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) or even a dollop of ricotta cheese are excellent, more accessible substitutes.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture, as the pasta will absorb moisture.
Can I add protein? Absolutely. Sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken strips, or even crumbled Italian sausage can be added with the spinach in step 4.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the garlic: Sauté just until fragrant. Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy water is essential for helping the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta.
- Adding cold cheese to high heat: Add the Parmesan off the heat or on very low heat to prevent it from clumping or becoming greasy.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate a block of cheese fresh for the smoothest sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Penne with Burrata is a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. The combination of the rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce with the fresh spinach and decadent, creamy burrata creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create an impressive and delicious meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
