Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a comforting dish that combines perfectly cooked penne with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce. It’s simple yet indulgent, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to impress guests without much fuss.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

penne pastabutterolive oilgarlic clovesheavy creamparmesan cheesemilkfloursaltblack pepperfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein.

Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and flavor.

Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and thick.

What type of parmesan works best?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly—burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s creamy, mild, and easy to customize.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate quick and comforting meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a rich, garlicky pasta that everyone will love. Give it a try for your next cozy dinner!

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