Penne Rosa Copycat Recipe That Tastes Just Like Olive Garden

If you’ve ever dined at a popular Italian-American restaurant and fallen in love with their creamy, tangy, and utterly comforting pasta dishes, then you know the magic of Penne Rosa. This luscious pasta combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with a subtle hint of spice, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Penne Rosa copycat recipe is a fantastic way to bring that restaurant-quality flavor right into your home kitchen. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples.

This recipe captures the essence of Penne Rosa’s signature sauce – a velvety blend of tomatoes, cream, and cheese – perfectly coating every piece of penne pasta. You’ll love how the sauce balances sweetness, acidity, and creaminess, creating a dish that’s satisfying and elegant all at once.

Best of all, it comes together quickly, so you can enjoy a gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Penne Rosa is a perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors that brighten up any dinner table. This recipe is:

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, it’s beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: You can add protein like chicken, shrimp, or keep it vegetarian.
• Comforting: The creamy tomato sauce makes it a perfect cozy meal.
• Customizable: Spice it up or keep it mild according to your taste.
• Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1/2 cup cooked chicken or shrimp

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add crushed tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
4. Season the sauce: Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the heat according to your preference.
5. Incorporate cream: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce turns a lovely pinkish color.
6. Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and fully incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne into the skillet and toss gently to coat every piece evenly with the rosa sauce.
8. Optional protein: If using chicken or shrimp, fold it into the pasta now and warm through for a couple of minutes.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top before serving for a burst of herbal freshness.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but note the sauce will be less rich.

• Spice it up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and toss in sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Cheese swap: Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a tangier punch.
• Make it vegan: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan Parmesan cheese.
• Fresh tomatoes: If you prefer, use fresh tomatoes blended and cooked down instead of canned.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Penne Rosa pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or a warm focaccia to soak up the creamy sauce.

For added texture, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or fresh breadcrumbs on top just before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano also complement this dish well and add a vibrant touch.

Conclusion

Making your own Penne Rosa at home is a delightful way to enjoy a restaurant favorite without the wait or hefty price tag. This copycat recipe delivers a creamy, tangy sauce that clings perfectly to al dente penne, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refined.

With easy-to-follow steps and flexible ingredient options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, the luscious pink sauce and flavorful seasoning will make everyone ask for seconds.

Give it a try tonight and experience the joy of homemade Penne Rosa!

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