Name: Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Allow me to introduce you to the kind of comfort food that feels like a giant, creamy hug: Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta. This dish brings together perfectly cooked penne, a luscious garlic-infused sauce, and a generous shower of Parmesan to create a meal that’s both effortless and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or something special to serve friends, this pasta promises to deliver cozy satisfaction in every forkful.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is how a handful of familiar ingredients come together to create something truly memorable. Each one plays a starring role, building layers of flavor and creaminess you’ll crave again and again.

Penne Pasta: The tubular shape catches all that dreamy sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Unsalted Butter: Gives the sauce its silky texture and adds a subtle richness that ties everything together.
Garlic: Four cloves, finely minced, infuse the dish with aromatic warmth—don’t skimp!
All-Purpose Flour: Just a little helps thicken the sauce into the perfect, velvety consistency.
Whole Milk: Provides a creamy base without making the sauce too heavy—use whole milk for best flavor.
Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness and that classic creamy mouthfeel.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for salty, nutty flavor; fresh grating makes a world of difference.
Salt: Enhances every flavor without overpowering the delicate sauce.
Black Pepper: Adds a gentle bite and rounds out the savory notes.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle heat, sprinkle some in for a little kick.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: A fresh, herbaceous finish that adds color and brightness to the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Penne

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your penne and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. The salted water flavors the pasta from the inside out, so don’t skip this step! Once cooked, drain well and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s just starting to bubble. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. You’re looking for that irresistible aroma—when it smells amazing, you’re ready for the next step. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking constantly to combine. Cook this mixture for about one minute. It should become slightly golden and smell a little nutty—this roux will help your sauce thicken up beautifully without any lumps.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking all the while to keep things smooth. Continue stirring as the mixture gently comes to a simmer and begins to thicken, about 4 to 5 minutes. This is when the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a luscious, creamy base.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is silky and rich. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this is your chance to make it perfect.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta straight into the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece in that glorious creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another minute or two so the flavors can really meld. When the pasta is steaming hot and glossy, you’re ready to serve.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top. The fresh green color and burst of flavor make your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta look (and taste!) restaurant-worthy. Serve right away and get ready for rave reviews.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Garnishes

A final flourish of freshly grated Parmesan and a scattering of chopped parsley can really elevate each plate. For an extra pop, add a twist of freshly ground black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes right before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil adds wonderful aroma and shine.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is delightfully rich, so pair it with something crisp and refreshing. A simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, and a side of garlic bread or warm focaccia is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli also make a lovely, colorful addition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve your pasta in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers. If you’re hosting, try making individual portions in small cast iron skillets or gratin dishes for a bistro-style effect. For a weeknight spin, pile it high on a big platter and let everyone help themselves family-style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days. The sauce may thicken a bit in the fridge, but that’s easy to fix when reheating.

Freezing

While creamy sauces can sometimes separate after freezing, you can freeze this pasta if needed. Cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, add a splash of milk or cream when warming up to bring back that creamy texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a little milk or cream if the sauce is too thick. The microwave works in a pinch, but use short intervals and stir frequently to avoid uneven heating. Top with fresh parsley for that just-made look.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne is classic for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti—just aim for a shape that holds onto the sauce well.

Is there a way to make it lighter?

Yes, you can swap in half-and-half for the milk and cream or use reduced-fat milk, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. Add extra herbs or lemon zest for a bright, fresh twist.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal. Just add your protein in with the pasta so it warms through in the sauce.

What’s the best way to avoid a lumpy sauce?

The secret is to whisk constantly when adding your liquids to the roux and to add them slowly. Using room-temperature milk and cream also helps keep the sauce ultra-smooth.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta ahead of time for a party?

You sure can! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then toss together just before serving. If it thickens up too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it right before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a pasta recipe that feels like pure comfort yet is easy enough for any night, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the answer. Each bite is loaded with creamy, garlicky goodness and a hint of cheesy decadence. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a luscious and comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce made with butter, milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy-to-make stovetop meal perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion. The sauce is flavored with minced garlic, a touch of black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 ounces penne pasta

Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Make the roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Add dairy: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens, approximately 4–5 minutes.
Incorporate cheese and seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until the cheese melts fully and the sauce attains a creamy consistency.
Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta before serving for added freshness and color.

Notes

For added protein, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to ensure the smoothest and best-flavored sauce.
You can substitute half-and-half for the milk and cream for a lighter sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American