Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

This Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat recipe brings the delightful flavors of the restaurant right to your kitchen. With golden chicken, thinly sliced mushrooms and onions, and a rich madeira sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The best part? You can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of madeira wine and fresh ingredients creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates the dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Meal: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests at gatherings.
• Comfort Food Appeal: This creamy pasta dish offers the warmth and satisfaction we all crave.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 80 minutes, including prep and cooking time!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of chicken and vegetables while providing enough space for sauce reduction.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Essential for cooking pasta properly; a larger pot helps maintain water temperature during cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Great for scraping up browned bits from the skillet, adding flavor to your sauce.

Ingredients

This Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat has golden chicken, thinly sliced mushrooms and onions, and a rich madeira sauce!

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into small bite-sized pieces)
• kosher salt
• black pepper
• 6 teaspoons olive oil (divided)

For the Vegetables

• 8 ounces whole baby bella mushrooms (very thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium red onion (very thinly sliced)

For the Pasta

• 10 ounces pasta (penne (see note))

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup madeira wine (sweet, not dry (or marsala if you can’t find madeira))
• 1 cup beef broth

For Finishing Touches

• ¼ cup heavy (or light) cream
• ¼ cup parmesan (freshly grated)
• ⅛ cup parsley (finely chopped, plus additional for topping)

How to Make Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken

Liberally season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 4 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add chicken in an even layer:
1. Don’t flip until the bottom side is very golden brown.
2. Flip and continue cooking until all edges are golden.
3. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms

Add remaining two teaspoons of olive oil to the skillet over medium heat:
1. Add mushrooms in a single layer; do not touch them until golden brown.
2. Stir until all sides are golden then remove them to the plate with chicken.

Step 3: Cook Onions

Melt butter in the same skillet:
1. Add sliced red onion.
2. Cook until very soft and almost caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. If too dry, add a splash of water.

Step 4: Boil Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Drain when just shy of al dente; do not overcook.

Step 5: Create Sauce Base

Once onions are softened:
1. Add garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Sprinkle on flour; stir for 1-2 minutes until incorporated.
3. Increase heat to medium high; pour in madeira wine.
4. Scrape bottom of skillet with a wooden spoon; bring to a simmer until slightly reduced.

Step 6: Finish Sauce

Add beef broth:
1. Continue stirring and simmering for 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan, and parsley.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return chicken and mushrooms to the skillet:
1. Simmer until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.
2. Add pasta; stir until coated in sauce.
3. Serve immediately topped with additional chopped parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

Serving your Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat is as delightful as making it. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience and impress your guests.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic addition that complements the rich flavors of the pasta. Serve warm for the best taste.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the dish. Consider adding a light vinaigrette.

Offer Grated Parmesan

• Providing freshly grated parmesan allows guests to customize their plating. It adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

Serve with a Glass of Madeira Wine

• Pairing this dish with a glass of madeira wine enhances the sauce’s flavors, making for an elegant meal.

Include Extra Chopped Parsley

• Offering additional parsley as a garnish can brighten up the dish visually and add fresh herbal notes.

Present with Lemon Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the pasta just before serving can elevate the dish’s overall taste profile.

How to Perfect Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

Perfecting your Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is restaurant-worthy.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Select fresh chicken and high-quality mushrooms for depth in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta until just shy of al dente for better texture in the final dish.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest before adding it back into the sauce; this keeps it juicy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
• Simmer Sauce Gently: Simmer on low heat to allow flavors to meld without burning or thickening too quickly.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishing; fresh parsley makes a big difference in presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

Complementing your Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat with suitable sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized makes for a colorful and nutritious side.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and creaminess, perfect alongside rich pasta dishes.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings freshness and a pop of color that pairs nicely with creamy sauces.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s heaviness.
5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes can soak up any leftover sauce, enhancing every bite.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a vibrant appetizer option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat, small errors can detract from the dish’s amazing flavor. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until golden brown and no longer. Overcooking can lead to dry pieces.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken with salt and pepper. It enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Not Cooking Pasta Correctly: Cook pasta just shy of al dente. If overcooked, it will become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: Ensure your sauce thickens properly by letting it simmer and stirring frequently. A runny sauce won’t coat your pasta well.
• Using Dry Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ingredients like garlic and parsley. They provide vibrant flavors that elevate the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• item Best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delightful dish.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cream used in the sauce.

What is Madeira wine, and can I use a substitute?

Madeira wine is a fortified wine from Portugal known for its rich flavor. If unavailable, Marsala wine is a good substitute.

How do I customize my Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory Copycat?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Da Vinci Cheesecake Factory copycat is not only delicious but also offers versatile customization options. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or tweak it to suit your tastes, it’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Give it a try today!