Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why This Creamy Penne Is a Must for Easy Recipes
- Fast, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly
- The Secret Behind the Creaminess
- How to Customize This Easy Dinner Favorite
- Perfect for Meal Prepping or Quick Weeknights
- More from Betty at Betty Cooks
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This creamy penne pasta is the perfect go-to for quick comfort food. With just a few pantry staples and 20 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s cozy, flavorful, and ideal for weeknights. Great for busy cooks who rely on easy recipes to get dinner on the table fast.
Why This Creamy Penne Is a Must for Easy Recipes
If you’re constantly on the lookout for easy recipes that taste amazing and save time, this creamy penne pasta is your answer. Created by Betty from Betty Cooks, this dish delivers big on flavor and requires minimal effort—exactly what a busy cook needs.
Fast, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly
This recipe proves that easy recipes don’t have to mean boring meals. Kids love the creamy sauce, adults love the comforting taste, and everyone enjoys how quickly it comes together. It’s a true crowd-pleaser.
The Secret Behind the Creaminess
The real magic in this creamy penne pasta lies in the silky texture achieved by combining reserved pasta water with cream cheese. This creates a light but luscious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta—no heavy cream required. It’s one of those recipes for dinner you’ll make again and again.
How to Customize This Easy Dinner Favorite
Whether you’re into vegetarian meals or looking to add protein, this dish is versatile. Stir in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even leftover chicken. You can also swap in gluten-free pasta or make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes. That’s what makes it one of the best dinner recipes around.
Perfect for Meal Prepping or Quick Weeknights
This creamy penne reheats like a dream, making it ideal for meal prepping. Just store in an airtight container and warm it up for a fast weeknight fix. It’s one of those food receipt easy recipes that work double duty.
More from Betty at Betty Cooks
Want more easy recipes that satisfy? Check out Betty’s collection at Betty Cooks for family-friendly meals, from butter swim biscuits easy recipes to chicken stirfry easy recipe ideas.
Notes & Tips
Add fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra depth. Store leftovers for up to three days and reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Perfect for busy cooks who love easy recipes with a creamy finish.
Creamy Penne Pasta – Easy Recipes for Quick Comfort
Ingredients
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and chopped onion until softened.
- Add the peas and cook for 2–3 minutes, then add the reserved pasta water and stir in the cream cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper, then add the cooked penne pasta and stir until well coated.
- Serve warm, topped with fresh basil leaves.
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