Name: Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci: Indulge in Creamy Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces Penne Pasta (Substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or ziti for variety.); 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut into bite-sized pieces.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Use for sautéing.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Can be replaced with more olive oil.); 1 medium Red Onion (Diced.); 3 cloves Minced Garlic; 8 ounces Baby Bella or Cremini Mushrooms (Sliced; substitute shiitake if desired.); 2 tablespoons Flour (For thickening.); 0.5 cup Madeira Wine (Substitute with Marsala or dry sherry.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Light cream is an alternative.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Beef broth can be used.); 0.5 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (Extra for serving.); to taste Chopped Fresh Parsley (Optional garnish.)

While flipping through an old cookbook, I was transported back to a delightful evening spent savoring the rich flavors of Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci, a dish that turned a simple dinner into an unforgettable experience. This copycat recipe captures the essence of this creamy comfort food, making it an easy and delicious option for any weeknight meal. With tender chicken, hearty penne, and a luscious Madeira sauce, it promises to bring the warmth of Italian-American cuisine right to your kitchen table. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests or satisfying those comfort food cravings without the restaurant bills. Curious how to recreate this restaurant favorite at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this Pasta Da Vinci special?

Luxurious flavors: This Pasta Da Vinci mirrors the rich, restaurant-quality experience, making you feel like a gourmet chef in your own kitchen.
Easy preparation: You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this creamy delight; it’s simple enough for any home cook.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this comforting dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Versatile options: Feel free to get creative by swapping chicken for shrimp or adding veggies like spinach—perfect for tailoring it to your palate.
Rich, silky sauce: The Madeira wine-infused sauce is the star of the show, delivering deep flavors that will have you savoring every bite.
If you’re interested in more delicious pasta ideas, you might enjoy my recipes for Tomato Garlic Pasta or even a sweet twist with Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake. Dive in and indulge!

Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci Ingredients

To recreate this creamy comfort at home, gather these essential ingredients!

For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – This short pasta provides the perfect base; feel free to substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or ziti for variety.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tender texture.

For the Sauce
• Salt and Pepper – These essential seasonings enhance the flavor of every ingredient.
• Olive Oil – Use for sautéing; it adds healthy fats and a lovely flavor profile.
• Butter – Helps thicken the sauce and adds richness; can be replaced with more olive oil if desired.
• Red Onions – These provide an aromatic sweetness, especially when caramelized.
• Minced Garlic – A must-have for depth and complexity in the sauce.
• Baby Bella or Cremini Mushrooms – Adds umami and a delightful texture; substitute shiitake if you prefer, keeping in mind the cost.
• Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce and creating a roux.
• Madeira Wine – A key area of flavor; if you need a substitute, Marsala or dry sherry work well, and for a non-alcoholic option, a mixture of white grape juice and vinegar is suitable.
• Heavy Cream – Gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture; light cream is a great alternative for a lighter version.
• Chicken Broth – Loosens the sauce and enhances flavor; feel free to use beef broth if that’s what you have.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor; extra for serving is always a good idea.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Provides a pop of color and freshness as a garnish; it’s optional but delightful.

This Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci will be the star of your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci

Step 1: Cook the Penne
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing it to steam off excess moisture while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter and a splash more of olive oil. Once melted and sizzling, add the diced red onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced baby Bella or cremini mushrooms and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and lightly browned.

Step 4: Create the Roux
Sprinkle two tablespoons of flour over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken your rich sauce for the Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci. Ensure the flour is fully incorporated and slightly golden before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Carefully pour in half a cup of Madeira wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom to enhance flavor. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken and develop a rich flavor. If it gets too thick, you can add a splash more of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Once the sauce has thickened nicely, stir in half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce, letting the flavors meld for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Plate your Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci while hot, garnishing each serving with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. You may also want to sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for added richness before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings the taste of the restaurant straight to your home!

Storage Tips for Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the dish in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing and lose its luscious texture.

Airtight Storage: If you must freeze, consider separating the sauce from the pasta to help preserve texture and flavor, but be aware that quality may still decline.

Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci Variations

Feel free to adapt this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sautéing until pink for a delicious seafood twist.
Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms and add a medley of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty meatless alternative.
Creamy Spinach: Mix in fresh spinach towards the end of cooking; it wilts beautifully and adds a pop of color.
Mushroom Medley: Try incorporating different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for a diverse flavor profile that tantalizes the palate.
Heat Up the Flavor: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an unexpected, warming kick.
Lighten It Up: Substitute heavy cream with light cream or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version that still feels indulgent.
Extra Garlicky: For a more intense flavor, increase the minced garlic to your liking, ensuring every bite is packed with that comforting aroma.
Cheesy Bliss: Elevate the creaminess with an extra layer of cream cheese or mascarpone stirred in before serving for an ultra-rich experience.

If you’re in the mood for more delicious pasta recipes, be sure to check out my Tomato Garlic Pasta or indulge your sweet side with a Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake. Enjoy customizing this comforting treat to make it your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the penne pasta and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save precious time during busy weeknights. Store the cooked pasta and chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the rich sauce (minus the cream) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days to maintain its rich flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, stir in the heavy cream, and mix in the chicken and pasta. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, comforting taste with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci

• Perfect Pasta: Ensure you cook the penne only until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed in the sauce.

• Chicken Tip: Cut chicken into even bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking. This ensures each piece is tender and flavorful in every bite.

• Achieve Depth: Allow onions and garlic to caramelize well. This step develops the natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci.

• Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on your sauce while simmering. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and burning, especially since it cooks for 45 minutes.

• Experiment with Mushrooms: Feel free to try different mushroom varieties for unique flavors. Shiitake adds a gourmet touch, while baby Bellas offer earthy tones.

• Garnish Delight: Don’t skip the parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnishing. They elevate the dish visually and add a fresh burst of flavor!

What to Serve with Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci

Transform this creamy comfort classic into a full meal experience that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart.

Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine, Parmesan, and tangy dressing complements the pasta’s creaminess, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers offer a vibrant, healthy contrast to the rich sauce, enhancing your dining experience.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with lemon, asparagus brings a fresh, crisp element that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
Sparkling Water: Refreshing and light, it cleanses the palate between bites, making the indulgent Pasta Da Vinci even more delightful.
Chocolate Cake: End your meal with a rich chocolate cake that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta, offering a sweet closure.
Red Wine: A smooth Cabernet or Chianti enhances the flavors of the Madeira sauce, creating a sophisticated pairing that elevates the dining experience.

Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my Pasta Da Vinci?
Absolutely! When selecting your mushrooms, look for ones that are firm, with a smooth surface and no dark spots. For chicken, choose boneless, skinless breasts that are fresh and pink, avoiding any with a foul smell or slimy texture. Fresh herbs, like parsley, should be vibrant green with no wilting.

How should I store leftovers of Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors intact and prevent the pasta from drying out. When reheating, opt for short intervals in the microwave, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Can I freeze my Cheesecake Factory Pasta Da Vinci?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the entire dish because of the creamy sauce, you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately. If you do so, place them in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it well over low heat, and it should smooth out nicely. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning too!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
This dish contains common allergens like dairy and wheat. If you’re preparing it for someone with allergies, consider substituting heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, and use gluten-free pasta. Always check labels for any specific dietary needs.

What can I do if my mushrooms turn out rubbery?
Very! If mushrooms are cooked at too high a heat or for too long, they can become rubbery. To avoid this, sauté them over medium heat until they’re just tender and golden, usually about 5-6 minutes. Also, please ensure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will trap moisture and prevent them from browning properly.