If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s creamy, bold, and a little different from your usual weeknight dinners, this stone ground coarse mustard penne is going to surprise you in the best way. It combines tender penne pasta with a rich, silky sauce that has a sharp, tangy kick from stone ground mustard.
Unlike heavy cream-based pastas that can feel overly rich, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy comfort and bright flavor. It’s quick to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and comes together in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you still want something homemade and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Stone Ground Coarse Mustard Penne
This stone ground coarse mustard penne is a unique twist on classic creamy pasta dishes.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
- Bold flavor: Tangy mustard adds depth and character
- Creamy texture: Smooth sauce with a slight bite
- Simple ingredients: Pantry-friendly recipe
- Great for weeknights: Minimal prep and cleanup
It’s the kind of pasta that feels gourmet without requiring extra effort.
Ingredients for Stone Ground Coarse Mustard Penne
To make this stone ground coarse mustard penne, you’ll need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons stone ground coarse mustard
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra tang)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Understanding your ingredients will help you perfect stone ground coarse mustard penne.
Stone Ground Mustard
This is the star ingredient, adding texture and tangy flavor.
Cream Base
Heavy cream creates a smooth sauce, but half-and-half works for a lighter version.
Pasta Choice
Penne is ideal because it holds the creamy sauce inside its tubes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water.
2. Make the Base
In a large pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce
Add chicken broth, cream, stone ground mustard, and Dijon mustard. Stir well.
4. Combine Pasta
Add cooked penne into the sauce and toss until coated.
5. Finish with Cheese
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Adjust thickness with pasta water if needed.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the best stone ground coarse mustard penne, follow these tips:
- Don’t boil sauce too hard—keep it gentle
- Add mustard gradually to control tanginess
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting
- Save pasta water to adjust consistency
- Stir continuously for a silky sauce
These small details make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Variations to Try
This recipe is flexible and easy to customize.
Protein Version
Add grilled chicken, sausage, or shrimp.
Veggie Version
Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli.
Extra Creamy Version
Add more Parmesan or a splash of cream cheese.
What to Serve With Stone Ground Coarse Mustard Penne
This stone ground coarse mustard penne pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken
- Steamed asparagus
These sides balance the creamy tangy flavor.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This pasta stores well for leftovers.
Storage
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days
Reheating
- Add a splash of milk or broth before reheating
- Warm gently on stovetop or microwave
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes when making stone ground coarse mustard penne:
- Adding mustard all at once without tasting
- Overcooking pasta until mushy
- Boiling cream too aggressively
- Skipping pasta water for sauce adjustment
Avoiding these ensures a smooth, balanced dish.
FAQs
Can I use regular mustard instead of stone ground?
Yes, but stone ground gives better texture and flavor depth.
Is this recipe very spicy?
No, it’s tangy rather than spicy.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
What pasta works best?
Penne works best, but rigatoni also works well.
Final Thoughts
This stone ground coarse mustard penne is a simple yet bold pasta dish that brings restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. With its creamy sauce and tangy mustard kick, it’s a refreshing twist on classic comfort food.
Whether you’re cooking for family or just want something quick and satisfying, this recipe is a guaranteed winner for busy nights.