Creamy Blue Cheese and Walnut Penne

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Steps

1. 1 In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2 While the penne cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. 3 Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
4. 4 Reduce the heat to low and stir in the blue cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
5. 5 Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in black pepper, smoked paprika, and season with salt to taste.
6. 6 Toast the walnuts in a small pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Chop roughly and sprinkle over the penne.
7. 7 Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon

Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape.

Substitutions

• If blue cheese isn't your thing, try gorgonzola or Roquefort for a similar flavor profile.
• Use walnut oil for a nutty depth if you're out of regular walnuts.

Pairings

• Serve with garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• A side of roasted asparagus or broccoli adds a fresh crunch.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, allow the sauce to simmer gently for an extra 5 minutes.
• Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: This dish does not freeze well due to the texture changes in the cheese sauce upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• A glass of Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

FAQ