Ingredients
- 400g penne pasta
- 150g blue cheese or gorgonzola, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Optional Additions:
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Crispy bacon
- Grilled chicken
- Toasted walnuts
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Add the crumbled blue cheese and parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Season with black pepper and salt if needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan before serving hot.
Notes
- Gorgonzola creates a milder and creamier flavor.
- Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese to prevent splitting.
- Reserved pasta water helps create a silky texture.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Serve immediately for the best creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
