Creamy 3-Cheese Penne Alfredo (30-Minute Pasta Bowl)
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until al-dente, about 6-8 minutes, or to the desired tenderness. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain
- While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until foamy but not browned.
- Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
- Pour in the cream and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is smooth and silky.
- Stir in the grated cheeses. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the cheeses are melted and the sauce coats the pasta.
- Remove from heat and drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil.
- Garnish as desire and serve immediately.!!!!!
🔄Variations
Smoked paprika pinch or fresh basil finish.
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon pieces for a heartier, more filling pasta bowl.
Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color, texture, and nutrients.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with garlic bread or buttery breadsticks for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Freezing (Not Recommended)
Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated only.
💡 Tips
Blend cheeses into warm sauce only. Reserve Pasta Water
Save ½ cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Low Heat for Cheese
Add cheeses over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming grainy.
Season Gradually
Taste as you go — cheeses already add saltiness, so adjust seasoning at the end.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use milk?
A: Yes, simmer an extra 2–3 minutes to thicken.
Q: Why 3 cheeses?
A: Parmesan holds tang, mozzarella holds melt, Romano holds salty warmth.
Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.