After a long day, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, creamy pasta dish to lift your spirits. Recently, I unearthed my Instant Pot from the back of the cabinet, and I couldn’t wait to whip up something delicious yet effortless. Enter my Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta—the dish that turned my average evening into a cozy culinary escape in just 20 minutes.
The moment the garlic began sizzling in the butter and olive oil, my kitchen was transformed into an Italian trattoria, filling me with anticipation. This recipe quickly became a weeknight hero, combining simplicity and rich flavors without sacrificing quality. All you need is a handful of ingredients, and before you know it, you'll have a plateful of creamy perfection that rivals anything from a busy restaurant.
Whether you're looking to impress a dinner guest or just treat yourself to a nourishing meal, this penne pasta is your ticket to gastronomic bliss. Let's dive into making this delightful dish that promises satisfaction with every creamy bite!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta
- This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 20 minutes.
- The rich and creamy flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
- You'll love the versatility of this dish, as you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Plus, its beautiful presentation is sure to impress family and friends, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.
Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta Ingredients
Get ready to savor an easy yet decadent dish with this creamy pasta recipe!
For the Pasta
• 12 oz dry penne pasta – choose whole wheat for a healthier twist.
For the Cooking Base
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – enhances flavor while keeping it light.
• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter – adds a rich creaminess that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – provides a fragrant base that elevates the dish.
For the Sauce
• 3 cups chicken broth – use low-sodium for better control over the saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – this blend of herbs gives that authentic Italian taste.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt – adjust to your preference, especially with broth already added.
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper – adds a gentle kick, balancing the creaminess.
• 1 cup heavy cream – the secret ingredient for that luscious, creamy texture.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – opt for fresh over pre-grated for maximum flavor.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize this creamy Instant Pot penne pasta recipe to your taste!
How to Make Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta
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Sauté garlic: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the olive oil and butter, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
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Add ingredients: Gently stir in the dry penne pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring everything is well combined.
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Pressure cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. The pasta will absorb the broth, creating a delicious base.
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Release pressure: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam!
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Stir in cream and cheese: Add the heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir gently until everything is beautifully creamy and well mixed.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste your creamy pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as needed before serving warm.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore creative twists on this creamy pasta dish to suit your tastes!
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Vegetable Boost: Add a cup of chopped spinach or peas at the end, stirring until wilted for a nutritious kick.
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Protein Power: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage before adding cream for added heartiness. It’s a wonderful way to include leftovers!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic to ignite your taste buds. Just a pinch can transform the dish!
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Herb Infusion: Instead of Italian seasoning, try fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a vibrant flavor. Fresh herbs bring a garden-fresh aroma to every bite.
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Cheesy Delight: Swap out or combine parmesan with mozzarella for a gooey texture that stretches beautifully. Imagine that melty pull with each forkful!
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Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving for a crunchy surprise. It elevates not just taste, but texture as well.
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Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest stirred in at the end brings a refreshing brightness that balances the creaminess. You'll love the zing that cuts through the richness!
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Plant-Based Option: For a vegan take, replace the heavy cream and parmesan with cashew cream and nutritional yeast. This creates a creamy texture without dairy while still delivering rich flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This creamy pasta can be reheated easily on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your creamy Instant Pot penne pasta in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
Wrap Consideration: Make sure to press out excess air when sealing bags for freezing to keep your pasta fresh and flavorful.
What to Serve with Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta?
Indulging in a warm, creamy dish transcends the ordinary, inviting you to curate a delightful meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread adds crunch and complements the creaminess of the pasta beautifully. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing pair wonderfully with the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offer a splash of color and nutritious balance to your plate. Their caramelized sweetness beautifully enhances each bite.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken adds protein and elevates your meal. The savory flavors meld perfectly with the creamy penne.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay will complement the dish’s creamy texture, enhancing your overall dining experience with its fruity notes.
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Tiramisu: End your evening on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu. The coffee flavors contrast delightfully with the creaminess of your pasta, creating a balanced menu.
With these pairings, your creamy Instant Pot penne pasta will transform any meal into a sumptuous dining delight!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify weeknight meals! You can prepare the pasta and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the garlic, combine the penne, broth, and seasonings in the Instant Pot, and refrigerate the mix in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, just add the mixture to your Instant Pot, cook it under pressure for 5 minutes, quickly release, and then stir in the heavy cream and parmesan for that creamy finish. This way, you'll have a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort, just as satisfying as if you made it from scratch!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making creamy Instant Pot penne pasta, ensure you sauté the garlic just until golden to avoid bitterness.
- For an even creamier texture, consider stirring in the heavy cream slowly to allow it to meld perfectly with the cheese.
- A common mistake is overcooking the pasta; remember it will continue to cook slightly after you release the pressure.
- Lastly, always taste your dish before serving to make sure the seasoning is to your liking, as flavors can intensify during cooking.
Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture, opt for high-quality dry penne pasta. Look for brands that use semolina flour, as they'll give you a firmer bite. If you prefer a healthier option, whole wheat penne is a fantastic alternative that still holds up beautifully in the creamy sauce.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive its creamy consistency—you don’t want it drying out!
Can I freeze Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze your pasta in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid ice crystals. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove with a little chicken broth to bring back that creamy goodness.
What should I do if my pasta is undercooked after pressure cooking?
I understand how disappointing that can be! If your pasta isn't cooked to your liking, simply switch the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode for a few minutes, stirring constantly. Add a splash of chicken broth to help with the cooking and prevent sticking. Keep an eye on it, and it should be perfect in no time!
Can I add vegetables or proteins to this recipe?
Very! This pasta dish is quite versatile. Feel free to toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using raw proteins; they may need additional pressure cooking before adding the cream and cheese!
Is this recipe suitable for specific dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free penne pasta. If you're dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. However, always double-check labels and ingredient lists for potential allergens, especially those concerning nuts or soy!
Creamy Instant Pot Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the olive oil and butter, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
- Gently stir in the dry penne pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. The pasta will absorb the broth, creating a delicious base.
- Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam!
- Add the heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir gently until everything is beautifully creamy and well mixed.
- Taste your creamy pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as needed before serving warm.
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