Mary Berry’s 15-Minute Creamy Penne Pasta: The Perfect Quick Family Dinner

Mary Berry is renowned for her vast collection of recipes that fit every occasion, and her latest quick pasta dish is no exception. This creamy penne pasta comes together in just 15 minutes, offering a delicious and fuss-free option for busy families and casual entertaining alike.

The simplicity and flavour of this dish have won praise from home cooks who appreciate its speed and taste. Mary herself notes, “This is my standby pasta supper as it is so delicious, so quick, and everyone loves it. It’s perfect for everyday meals or casual supper parties.”

At the heart of the recipe is a luscious crème fraîche sauce, balanced by crispy Parma ham for a satisfying blend of flavour and texture. Designed to serve six, this recipe is nut-free and pregnancy-safe, ensuring it suits a range of dietary needs.

Preparation couldn’t be simpler, taking only three easy steps:

Boil salted water and cook the penne pasta as per the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Heat a frying pan over high heat and cook the Parma ham until crispy. Remove half and set aside. Add mushrooms to the pan and sauté for two minutes, then pour in the crème fraîche and bring to a boil. Add the pasta, Parmesan, and parsley, mixing well over the heat. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the reserved Parma ham.
Serve the pasta with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a perfect meal.

For those using reduced-fat crème fraîche, Mary advises adding it at the end of cooking to prevent the sauce from splitting.

For a little extra flair on special occasions, simply stir in asparagus tips during the last four minutes of cooking, then drain with the pasta.

This quick, flavoursome pasta is ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed entertaining, providing a delicious meal without the fuss.