This Blue Cheese Pasta brings a creamy and tangy twist to your dinner. Made with rich blue cheese and tossed with al dente pasta, it’s comfort food that hits the spot!
Honestly, it’s like a hug in a bowl! I love topping it with some crunchy nuts for extra flavor. Give yourself the night off from the kitchen—this dish is super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe highlights penne, which is great for holding onto the sauce. If you’re out of penne, try rigatoni or fusilli; both work well too.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just be aware that this may slightly change the flavor.
Blue Cheese: The star of this dish! If blue cheese isn’t your thing, crumbled goat cheese or feta creates a tangy creaminess but with a different taste. Choose according to your palate!
Walnuts: They provide crunch! If you have a nut allergy, try toasted sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. For another nut option, pecans are also delicious!
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have any, fresh basil or chives can work as a nice substitute.
How Do I Get the Cream Sauce Just Right?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce is key to this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- Begin with a gentle heat when melting the butter and sautéing garlic. This brings out the flavor without burning.
- When adding heavy cream, keep an eye on it. You just want it to simmer lightly—not boil, as boiling could cause it to separate.
- Once the blue cheese is in, stir continuously until it fully melts into the cream. Be patient; it takes a moment!
- Taste and adjust the seasoning after adding the cheese, as it can be salty. Start with less salt, and add more if needed.
How to Make Delicious Blue Cheese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 4 oz (115 g) blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Add-Ons:
- 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Blue Cheese Pasta takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy meal with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This step adds a lovely garlic flavor to your sauce!
3. Make it Creamy:
Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the crumbled blue cheese. Stir the mixture continuously until the cheese melts and combines with the cream to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Season to Perfection:
Next, season your sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that blue cheese can be a bit salty on its own, so taste before adding too much salt!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss it gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the blue cheese sauce. Make sure every bite gets that creamy goodness!
6. Toast the Walnuts:
In a small dry pan, toast the roughly chopped walnuts over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until they are fragrant and slightly browned. This step enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to your dish.
7. Serve Up:
Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley leaves. Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Enjoy your delicious Blue Cheese Pasta! You deserve it!
Can I Use Different Cheese?
Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor or even use ricotta for a creamier texture. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly as different cheeses vary in saltiness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply switch out the penne pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are plenty of great options available made from rice, corn, or lentils that will work beautifully.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore the original creamy texture!
What Can I Serve with Blue Cheese Pasta?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. A glass of white wine would complement the flavors beautifully as well!
