Penne with Pancetta and Mushrooms

Ingredients and Weight:

• Penne pasta: 1 pound (454 grams)
• Pancetta: 1/2 pound (227 grams), diced
• Crimini mushrooms: 1 pound (454 grams), sliced
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Dry white wine: 1 cup
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup grated
• Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25-30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet with the pancetta fat. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the white wine to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the cooked penne, pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water.
8. Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 550 (per serving)
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 80 grams
• Fat: 25 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Savory and umami-rich
• A classic Italian dish made with easily available ingredients
• Suitable for American taste buds

User Comments:

• "This dish was absolutely delicious! The flavors were perfectly balanced."
• "I loved the crispy pancetta and the tender mushrooms."
• "This is a great recipe for a quick and easy weeknight meal."
• "I added some red pepper flakes for a little extra heat."
• "I served this with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the sauce."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have dry white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth.
• Be sure to cook the mushrooms until they are tender, but not mushy.
• Don't overcook the sauce, or it will become too thick.
• Serve this dish immediately with your favorite toppings, such as Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes.