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If you love dreamy, indulgent pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Silky and luscious, this dish combines tender penne pasta with a rich garlic-infused cream sauce and the unmistakable tang of parmesan cheese. Every bite invites you to savor the harmony of flavors and textures, making it perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand exactly why it’s a beloved classic in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but absolutely essential for creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role in bringing this creamy garlic penne pasta recipe to life, from the lushness of the heavy cream to the punch of fresh garlic.
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto that decadent sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth base flavor and helps gently sauté the garlic without burning.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star aromatic that infuses the sauce with bold, lingering flavor.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the rich, silky sauce that makes this dish irresistibly creamy.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, nutty essence that perfectly season the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Offers a subtle kick that rounds out the taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish): Provides a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat): Brings a gentle warmth if you like a little spice in your creamy pasta.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne to Perfection
Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions, aiming for that perfect al dente texture—tender with just a slight bite. Once cooked, drain well and set the pasta aside, keeping it ready to soak up that luscious sauce in the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet set over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers gently. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. This is where the sauce’s signature garlic aroma starts to develop, so be mindful not to let it brown or burn!
Step 3: Add and Heat the Heavy Cream
Next, pour the heavy cream slowly into the skillet while stirring constantly. This gradual addition ensures the cream melds seamlessly with the garlic-infused oil. Let it gently heat for 2 to 3 minutes until warm and starting to shimmer, but not boiling.
Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated parmesan into the cream mixture, stirring consistently. As the cheese melts, you’ll see the sauce start to thicken beautifully. This step takes about 2 to 3 minutes, creating the velvety base that coats the penne perfectly.
Step 5: Season Your Sauce
Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to get it just right. If you enjoy a little heat, toss in the optional red pepper flakes to give the sauce a subtle, warming kick without overpowering the creamy garlic flavor.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet and toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in that luscious, creamy garlic sauce. Mixing it here allows the pasta to absorb all the flavor, making sure no bite is ever bland.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer your pasta to a beautiful serving dish. For the final touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for brightness and an extra dusting of parmesan if you like. Serve immediately, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying dishes to brighten your day.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but elegant garnish that adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts the rich creaminess. A little more parmesan cheese on top can never go wrong—it melts just slightly adding texture and even more savory goodness.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic penne pasta is a star on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread on the side? Absolutely yes—it’s a dream team combination!
Creative Ways to Present
For a classy spin, try serving the penne in individual shallow bowls instead of a platter. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a handful of toasted pine nuts on top can add an exciting layer of flavor and crunch. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few edible flowers or fresh microgreens as a garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover creamy garlic penne pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish even after your first serving.
Freezing
While the sauce’s texture is best when fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing but can be revived with gentle reheating and stirring.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring often to warm evenly and keep that irresistible creaminess intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for trapping the creamy sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle also work beautifully. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as rich. Adding a bit of cream cheese can help maintain creaminess with less fat.
Can I add protein to the creamy garlic penne pasta recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon pieces make excellent additions that complement the garlicky cream sauce perfectly.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken the sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce or add a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese. For a thinner sauce, stir in a little milk or pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
This recipe is vegetarian as long as you use parmesan cheese labeled suitable for vegetarians, since some cheeses contain animal rennet. Otherwise, it’s a delicious, meat-free option!
Final Thoughts
Giving this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe a try will quickly make it a go-to comfort food in your home. Simple ingredients come together to create something truly special, showing that you don’t need a complicated recipe to enjoy rich, satisfying flavors. So grab your skillet and penne pasta and dive into this delightful dish—you’re going to love every creamy, garlicky bite!
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Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy garlic penne pasta is a luscious and comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked penne tossed in a rich, velvety sauce made from garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Enhanced with a hint of red pepper flakes for optional heat and fresh parsley for garnish, it’s a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be combined later with the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant to infuse the oil with garlic flavor.
- Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to heat for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors and prepare for thickening.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add the grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes, creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste for a balanced flavor profile.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the creamy garlic penne pasta to a serving dish.
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired to enhance presentation and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, comforting creamy garlic penne pasta.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though sauce will be less rich.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted for desired heat level.
- Garnishing with parsley adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
