Italian Dream

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with "Italian Dream," a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings together tender penne pasta coated in a luscious tomato and heavy cream sauce, elevated by fragrant garlic and fresh basil. With melted mozzarella folded into the sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory finish, every bite is a symphony of Italian-inspired flavors. Ready in just 35 minutes, this crowd-pleaser is ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. The optional hint of red chili flakes adds a subtle kick, while the use of reserved pasta water ensures the sauce clings perfectly to each piece of pasta. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad, and let this dreamy pasta transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Keywords: creamy pasta, Italian Dream recipe, penne pasta, tomato cream sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, quick Italian dinner.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams Penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 whole, finely minced Garlic cloves
• 400 grams Crushed tomatoes
• 200 milliliters Heavy cream
• 10 whole, plus extra for garnishing Fresh basil leaves
• 200 grams, shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 50 grams, grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons (adjust to taste) Black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoons (optional) Red chili flakes
• 3 liters (for boiling pasta) Water
• 1 tablespoon (for boiling pasta) Salt

Directions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with 3 liters of water and bring to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 10–12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2

In a large pan or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 3

Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan and stir. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5

Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the sauce. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoons of black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until it is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 7

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and gently stir until the cheese is melted and creamy.

Step 8

Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves for a touch of freshness.

Step 9

Serve immediately and enjoy your Italian Dream with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4395.7 grams (4395.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3253

Total Fat 158.20g	203%
Saturated Fat 76.70g	384%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.10g
Cholesterol 375mg	125%
Sodium 11353mg	494%
Total Carbohydrate 327.50g	119%
Dietary Fiber 21.80g	78%
Total Sugars 15.30g
Protein 119.20g	238%

Vitamin D 32IU	160%
Calcium 2167mg	167%
Iron 20mg	108%
Potassium 2082mg	44%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.3%

Protein: 14.9%

Carbs: 40.8%