Creamy Gorgonzola Penne with Sage
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Creamy Gorgonzola Penne with Sage, a delightful dish that elevates simple pasta to gourmet status. The rich, tangy Gorgonzola cheese melds beautifully with the creamy sauce, while fresh sage adds an aromatic touch that perfectly complements the dish. This recipe is quick and easy, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Serve it alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a sophisticated side dish, this pasta is sure to impress cheese lovers and guests alike.
4
Servings
350
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
penne
1 lb (cooked and drained)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
butter
1 tablespoon (none)
garlic cloves
4 (minced)
shallots
2 (minced)
chicken broth
1 cup (none)
heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup (none)
gorgonzola
8 ounces (crumbled)
fresh sage
3 tablespoons (finely chopped)
flour
2 tablespoons (none)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a large, heavy skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
2
Add the minced garlic and shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
3
Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
4
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer, which should take about a minute.
5
Once simmering, stir in the heavy whipping cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
6
Lower the heat and mix in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, fresh sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
7
Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure that the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
8
Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the sauce to cling to the pasta. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
21g
Fat
29g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Gorgonzola Penne with Sage?
It is a gourmet pasta dish featuring a rich, tangy Gorgonzola cheese sauce flavored with fresh sage and garlic.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients in the sauce?
The sauce is made from Gorgonzola cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, flour, butter, olive oil, garlic, and shallots.
How many calories are in one serving of this pasta?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed as a 30-minute meal and a quick recipe for busy schedules.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While penne is recommended, you can use other shapes like rigatoni or fusilli that hold creamy sauces well.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 8 ounces of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese for its distinct tangy flavor.
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh sage?
Fresh sage is preferred for its aromatic quality, but if you must use dried, use about one-third of the amount called for.
What is the purpose of the flour in the recipe?
The flour is used to create a roux with the butter and oil, which helps thicken the sauce.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
As written, it uses chicken broth. To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
It is delicious served alongside crusty garlic bread or a light green salad.
How much fat is in a serving?
Each serving contains 21g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 29g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this recipe provide?
Each serving provides 12g of protein.
How do I prepare the garlic and shallots?
Both the 4 cloves of garlic and the 2 shallots should be minced before sautéing.
What is the first step in making the sauce?
The first step is to heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.
How long should I sauté the garlic and shallots?
Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
When do I add the heavy whipping cream?
Add the heavy whipping cream after you have whisked in the chicken broth and brought the mixture to a simmer.
Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream?
For the creamiest result, heavy cream is best, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though the sauce may be thinner.
How much Gorgonzola is needed?
You will need 8 ounces of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
You can add a small splash of chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Is the salt and pepper measurement specific?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, though you can adjust to taste.
How much penne pasta is required?
The recipe requires 1 lb of penne pasta, cooked and drained.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, sliced grilled chicken or sautéed pancetta would make excellent additions to this creamy pasta.
How do I ensure the pasta is well coated?
Toss the cooked penne gently in the skillet with the sauce and let it sit for a minute before serving.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, the combination of cheese, cream, and pasta makes it a classic comfort food meal.
What kind of skillet should I use?
A large, heavy skillet is recommended to ensure even heating and enough space for tossing the pasta.
Should I rinse the pasta after draining?
No, do not rinse the pasta; the starch on the surface helps the Gorgonzola sauce cling to the penne.
Can I use onions instead of shallots?
Yes, you can substitute finely minced yellow or white onion if shallots are unavailable.
What is the total number of ingredients used?
This recipe uses a total of 12 ingredients.