Description
Copycat Noodles And Company Penne Rosa is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish combining tender penne with a luscious tomato-cream sauce, fresh vegetables, and Italian herbs. Easy to make and customizable, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup marinara sauce
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in diced red bell pepper and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Toss in spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with sauce and vegetables.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as preferred.
Include mushrooms, zucchini, or other veggies for added texture.
Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on stove or microwave, adding water or cream if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
