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Easy One-Pot Creamy Asparagus Penne

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A quick and creamy one-pot asparagus penne recipe perfect for busy college students, combining simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dry penne pasta
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12 ounces), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse asparagus and cut off tough ends (about 1-2 inches). Chop into 2-inch pieces. Mince garlic cloves finely.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, avoiding burning.
  3. Pour in broth and milk, bring to a gentle boil. Add dry penne pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add asparagus pieces. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente and asparagus is tender but bright green. Add broth or water if too dry.
  5. Lower heat to low. Stir in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir constantly until sauce is creamy and coats pasta evenly, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Adjust sauce thickness by adding milk or simmering longer as needed.
  7. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley.

Notes

Let the pasta sit off heat for a couple of minutes to thicken the sauce. Avoid burning garlic to prevent bitterness. Stir often to prevent sticking. Use softened cream cheese for smooth sauce. Adjust salt carefully due to broth and Parmesan saltiness. Add broth or water if sauce gets too thick during cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, asparagus penne, creamy pasta, easy dinner, college meals, quick pasta recipe, asparagus recipe

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/easy-one-pot-creamy-asparagus-penne-recipe-perfect-for-college-students/