One Pot Creamy Penne Alfredo with Spicy Arugula.
This One Pot Creamy Penne Alfredo with Spicy Arugula is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and easy cleanup!
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cup
- Grater
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 cloves garlic finely chopped or grated
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- 1 pound penne pasta
- Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup whole milk or canned coconut milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
- 2 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Juice from 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup shallot finely chopped
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs such as parsley and basil
Instructions
- In your large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, onion powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let the spices toast for another minute to release their flavors.
- Add 1 pound of penne pasta to the pot along with enough water to cover the pasta (about 4 cups). Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Bring it to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of whole milk (or coconut milk) and 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk) along with the cream cheese. Mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Gradually mix in 1 1/2 cups of grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Stir until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta beautifully.
- Add 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, the juice from 1 lemon, and 2 cups of baby arugula. Gently fold in the arugula and herbs until just wilted. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve your One Pot Creamy Penne Alfredo with Spicy Arugula warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish that comes together effortlessly!
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to absorb the sauce without getting mushy.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up before serving.