Name: Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb penne pasta; 4 tbsp butter; 1 lb chicken breast meat; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; 1 red onion; 1 lb shiitake mushrooms; 2 cloves garlic; 1 cup madeira wine; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup parmesan cheese

Pasta Da Vinci is a rich and flavourful pasta dish that features the unique combination of penne pasta, chicken, mushrooms, and a luxurious cream sauce. The star of the show is the Madeira wine, which gives the dish its unique depth and sweetness. This dish is a perfect choice for a fancy dinner or a special occasion.

Photos of Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) Recipe

This recipe requires a few unique ingredients that may not be commonly found in your home pantry and thus, you may need to plan a trip to the supermarket to fetch them. First up is the Madeira wine, a Portuguese fortified wine that gives the dish its unique flavour. If you can’t find it, Marsala wine can be a suitable substitute. Shiitake mushrooms also add a wonderful texture and earthiness, but you can replace them with any mushroom variety of your choice.

Ingredients Required for Pasta Da Vinci

Penne pasta: A tube-shaped pasta that's ideal for cream-based sauces and holds up well to a variety of ingredients.

Butter: Adds richness and prevents the pasta from sticking.

Chicken breast meat: Lean protein that's easy to cook and complements the pasta.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the other flavours.

Red onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor when sautéed.

Shiitake mushrooms: They provide a unique, earthy flavour and meaty texture.

Garlic: Gives an extra flavour kick.

Madeira wine: Portuguese wine that adds a unique depth and sweetness to the dish.

Chicken broth: Adds a savoury depth to the sauce.

Sour cream: Gives a tangy creaminess to the sauce.

Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and velvety.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty element that balances the richness of the cream.

One reader, Flo Tidwell says:

This pasta da Vinci recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and creamy, and the combination of chicken, mushrooms, and onions is simply divine. It's a restaurant-quality dish that I can now make at home. I highly recommend trying it - you won't be disappointed!

Flo Tidwell

Techniques Required

How to cook the pasta: Cook the pasta 1 minute shy of the directions on the box and drain.

How to cook the chicken: In a cast-iron skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken, salt, and pepper in the pan on medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once in the middle.

How to cook the mushrooms: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned.

How to caramelize the onions: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet with the mushrooms and add the onions. Cook on medium-low for 5 to 7 minutes or until caramelized.

How to make the sauce: Add the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute. Then, add the wine and 1 cup chicken broth and let reduce by ¾ of the liquid for 10 to 12 minutes, depending on how hot the skillet and flame are. Add the sour cream, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and the last 1 tablespoon of butter. Whisk until well combined.

How to combine the dish: Add the chicken and pasta and stir to combine.

How to serve: Serve immediately and garnish with additional parmesan cheese if desired.

How To Make Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat)

Cook a creamy pasta dish with this Cheesecake Factory-inspired pasta da vinci. It’s tossed with chicken and mushrooms in a rich cheesy sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbpenne pasta
4tbspbutter,divided
1lbchicken breast meat,cut into 1-inch chunks
½tspkosher salt
¼tspground black pepper
1red onion,chopped
1lbshiitake mushrooms,sliced, or Crimini
2clovesgarlic
1cupmadeira wine
1cupchicken broth
½cupsour cream
1cupheavy cream
½cupParmesan cheese

Instructions

Cook the pasta 1 minute shy of the directions on the box and drain.
In a cast-iron skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter.
Add the chicken, salt, and pepper in the pan on medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once in the middle.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside with the pasta.
Add in 1 tablespoon of butter. Add in mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan with the mushrooms and add onions. Cook on medium-low for 5 to 7 minutes or until caramelized.
Add in the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Add the wine and 1 cup chicken broth and let reduce by ¾ of the liquid for 10 to 12 minutes, depending on how hot the skillet and flame are.
Add the sour cream, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and last 1 tablespoon of butter. Whisk until it is well combined.
Add in the chicken and pasta and stir to combine.
Serve immediately. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 744.30kcal
Fat: 33.34g
Saturated Fat: 19.01g
Trans Fat: 0.32g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.90g
Carbohydrates: 68.47g
Fiber: 4.71g
Sugar: 7.42g
Protein: 35.62g
Cholesterol: 149.48mg
Sodium: 457.97mg
Calcium: 228.50mg
Potassium: 838.03mg
Iron: 2.02mg
Vitamin A: 292.88µg
Vitamin C: 2.34mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Pasta da Vinci

When cooking the chicken, it's important to not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable golden-brown crust from forming. Also, when adding the wine and chicken broth to the pan, make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits stuck to it. This process, known as deglazing, adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Lastly, when adding the pasta to the sauce, ensure that it's al dente as it will continue to cook in the sauce, absorbing the flavors and ensuring a perfect texture in every bite.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pasta da Vinci

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate meats in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Multitask: While one component is cooking, use that time to prep other ingredients or clean up to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in tools: Quality kitchen tools and appliances can help you work more efficiently, so consider investing in items like a sharp chef's knife or a food processor.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes.

Substitute Ingredients For Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) Recipe

Penne pasta - Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash can be used as a low-carb alternative to pasta, providing a similar texture and mild flavor.
Butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, adding a rich flavor to the dish.
Chicken breast meat - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a good source of protein.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity.
Ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a milder alternative to black pepper, providing a different flavor profile.
Red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can be used as a substitute for red onion, providing a slightly milder flavor.
Shiitake mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms can be used as a substitute for shiitake, providing a similar earthy flavor and texture.
Garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
Madeira wine - Substitute with Marsala wine: Marsala wine can be used as a substitute for Madeira, providing a similar depth of flavor.
Chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a vegetarian alternative.
Sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, providing a rich and creamy texture.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese, providing a cheesy flavor and nutritional benefits.

Plating Ideas for a Restaurant-Worthy Dish

Elevate the plating: When presenting the pasta da Vinci, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Consider using a large, flat plate to showcase the dish and arrange the pasta neatly in the center.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the presentation.
Consider the use of edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by delicately placing a few edible flowers on the plate. This adds a subtle, yet visually stunning, element to the dish.
Utilize fine dining techniques: Employ meticulous techniques such as using tweezers to carefully place individual mushroom slices or chicken pieces, ensuring precision and attention to detail.
Create a harmonious balance: Pay attention to the distribution of the components on the plate, aiming for a balanced and visually appealing arrangement that showcases each element of the dish.
Emphasize the sauce: Drizzle a small amount of the creamy sauce around the pasta using a squeeze bottle or a spoon, creating an artful and appetizing presentation.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Treat the plate as a canvas and use the negative space to your advantage, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point of the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pasta da Vinci

Cast-iron skillet: A heavy-duty pan that distributes heat evenly and can be used for sautéing, searing, and frying.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together smoothly.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used to drain liquids from food items such as pasta or vegetables.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, or reheating food.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife with a broad blade, used for chopping, slicing, and mincing.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to accurately measure ingredients for cooking and baking.
Tongs: Kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot, used for picking up and manipulating food items.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate ingredients such as cheese or vegetables.
Pasta pot: A large, deep pot with a strainer insert, specifically designed for cooking and draining pasta.

How To Store and Freeze Pasta da Vinci

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the pasta da vinci (cheesecake factory copycat) recipe:

Storing leftovers: allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezing: portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of chicken broth or water to restore the sauce's consistency.
Pro tip: for best results, undercook the penne pasta slightly before freezing, as it will continue to soften when reheated. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
When reheating frozen pasta, be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. Add more chicken broth, heavy cream, or parmesan cheese as needed to achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
If you plan on freezing the pasta, consider using a slightly larger container to allow room for expansion during the freezing process. This will help maintain the texture of the pasta and prevent the container from cracking.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Reheat the leftover pasta da vinci in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream if the sauce appears too thick.
For a quick and easy method, place the leftover pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta da vinci to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
If you have a lot of leftover pasta, consider reheating it in a large pot of boiling water. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Drain the pasta and toss with a small amount of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
For a crispy texture, reheat the leftover pasta da vinci in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the pasta in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated through and slightly crispy.

Random Fact about Pasta da Vinci:

The pasta da Vinci dish is a popular item at the Cheesecake Factory. It is known for its rich and creamy sauce, which is made with a combination of sour cream, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is a delicious and indulgent option for pasta lovers, and it's a great choice for a special meal or celebration.

Is Making Pasta da Vinci at Home Cost-Effective?

This pasta da Vinci recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a worthy addition to any household menu. The use of chicken, mushrooms, and sour cream creates a rich and satisfying dish. While the ingredients may require a moderate investment, the resulting meal is substantial and can serve a family of four. The estimated cost for this recipe is approximately $25, making it a reasonable option for a special dinner or gathering. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 8 out of 10 for its taste, versatility, and overall appeal.

Is Pasta da Vinci a Healthy Choice?

This recipe for pasta da vinci, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the use of butter, heavy cream, sour cream, and parmesan cheese. Additionally, the recipe lacks significant amounts of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.

However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing taste:

Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and protein content
Replace some or all of the butter with olive oil, which is a healthier fat
Reduce the amount of heavy cream and sour cream, or substitute with low-fat versions
Increase the amount of mushrooms and add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost nutrient density
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content
Opt for skinless chicken breast to lower the fat content
Adjust the portion sizes to maintain a balanced meal

By incorporating these changes, you can transform this pasta da vinci recipe into a more nutritious and well-rounded dish that still satisfies your cravings for a creamy, flavorful pasta. Remember, moderation is key, and it's okay to indulge in a less healthy version occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Cheesecake Factory Copycat Recipe

This recipe for Pasta Da Vinci is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of shiitake mushrooms and madeira wine adds a depth of richness to the dish, while the creamy sauce brings everything together beautifully. The caramelized onions and garlic provide a sweet and savory undertone, complementing the tender chicken and al dente penne perfectly. Overall, it's a well-balanced and indulgent dish that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread slathered in garlic-infused butter and toasted to perfection

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a tangy Caesar dressing and topped with crunchy croutons and shaved parmesan cheese

Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of colorful vegetables roasted to caramelized perfection, drizzled with balsamic glaze

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pasta da Vinci

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: This dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, served over a bed of pasta or mashed potatoes.

Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and flavorful mushroom risotto, made with arborio rice, mushrooms, and a touch of white wine for a luxurious finish.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a delightful lemon blueberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant blueberry topping.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pasta da Vinci

Appetizers:

Crispy Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, our crispy calamari is served with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping. The tender calamari paired with the tangy marinara creates a delightful flavor combination that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Our stuffed mushrooms are a savory delight, filled with a rich blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and baked to golden perfection, these bite-sized appetizers are bursting with flavor and are sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of warm and cold, and top it off with a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor.

Tiramisu: Create a classic tiramisu with layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso and coffee liqueur, and creamy mascarpone cheese. Dust each layer with cocoa powder for a hint of bitterness, and garnish with chocolate shavings and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a touch of warmth.

Why trust this Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic pasta dish, inspired by the renowned Cheesecake Factory dish. The combination of tender chicken breast, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and rich madeira wine creates a symphony of flavors. The step-by-step instructions ensure a seamless cooking experience, and the use of sour cream and heavy cream guarantees a lusciously creamy texture. With the perfect balance of ingredients and a touch of culinary finesse, this recipe promises to elevate any home dining experience.

Share your thoughts on the Pasta Da Vinci (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What is madeira wine and can I substitute it with something else?

Madeira wine is a fortified wine from the Madeira Islands of Portugal. It has a rich, sweet flavor with a slightly nutty undertone. If you don't have Madeira wine, you can substitute it with a combination of dry Marsala wine and a bit of brown sugar to mimic its flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. This recipe works well with fettuccine, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the Madeira wine?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the Madeira wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. You may want to add a splash of balsamic vinegar to mimic the acidity and depth of flavor that the wine would provide.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and chicken.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. Simply add the cooked chicken when the recipe calls for it and allow it to heat through in the sauce. This can be a great time-saving option if you have leftover cooked chicken on hand.