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
Scale
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.
