Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels both indulgent and effortlessly simple, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. It’s all about luscious, velvety sauce hugging perfectly cooked penne, with that irresistible garlic kick that lights up every bite. Whether you want a quick weekday meal or a dish to impress your family without fuss, this recipe delivers creamy, dreamy satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a starring role. These essentials build layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together in pure harmony.
- 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect tubular pasta that traps the sauce beautifully in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and prevents the garlic from burning.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The fragrant heart of the dish, giving a sharp and savory punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the ultra-smooth and creamy base that makes this recipe so irresistible.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, green pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure it’s al dente, with just a little bite to keep the texture lively and not mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This step sets the foundation for our creamy delight, so timing matters!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Next, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This gentle cooking helps release that aromatic garlic essence without turning bitter, which is key for a smooth and savory sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking, allowing the cream to warm and thicken just enough to create a luscious base. This silky creaminess is what defines the Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe, giving it that signature rich feel.
Step 4: Add Parmesan
Once your cream is simmering nicely, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully into the sauce and it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. The cheese adds irresistible depth, blending perfectly with the garlic and cream for that mouthwatering flavor boost.
Step 5: Season
Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. This simple but essential step balances the richness and elevates all the other flavors, creating a harmonious and well-rounded sauce that will make your taste buds sing.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta directly to the skillet and toss to fully coat every piece in the creamy garlic sauce. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and that perfect creamy texture that makes this penne pasta recipe so beloved.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top as a finishing touch. The green flecks add a vibrant pop of color and a slight herbal freshness that balances the richness. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting bowl of creamy goodness!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or even a handful of toasted pine nuts can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. A light dusting of extra Parmesan at the table lets everyone personalize their plates and adds a bit of salty tang.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, offering a crisp counterpoint to the creamy sauce. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, making your meal feel like a cozy Italian feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the creamy garlic penne pasta in individual shallow bowls and top it with a sprig of parsley and a twist of cracked black pepper. You can also sprinkle a bit of crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat. Plating the dish with some roasted cherry tomatoes adds a burst of color and a slight acidity that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before storing to keep the sauce texture intact and the flavors fresh.
Freezing
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture might slightly change upon thawing due to the cream sauce.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce back to its creamy perfection. Stir often to prevent sticking and to revive that freshly made feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Choose any pasta shape you love, and it will still taste fantastic.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as thick or rich. Adding a small amount of cream cheese can help maintain creaminess without the extra fat.
Can I add vegetables or protein?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken breast work beautifully to turn this pasta into a more substantial meal. Just add them when combining the pasta and sauce for best results.
What’s the secret to preventing garlic from burning?
Cook your garlic over medium or medium-low heat and keep a close eye on it. Garlic cooks quickly and can go from fragrant to bitter in seconds, so stirring constantly helps.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let the cream simmer a little longer before adding the cheese, stirring frequently. The sauce will reduce and thicken naturally. Adding a bit more Parmesan cheese can also help achieve a richer, thicker texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully cozy and satisfying about this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe that always wins hearts at the dinner table. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and that unbeatable garlic-infused creaminess make it a recipe worth keeping close at hand. I can’t wait for you to whip it up and enjoy every silky, flavorful bite with your loved ones.
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Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta recipe offers a rich and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender penne pasta is coated in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a delightful, comforting meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Make the sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as desired.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve the pasta immediately while hot.
Notes
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
