If you’re hunting for a comforting yet elegant pasta dish that’s both easy and incredibly satisfying, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. With its silky, savory sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, every bite envelops your taste buds in rich indulgence. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you crave something deliciously satisfying without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and perfect texture. From the al dente penne to the luscious cream and sharp Parmesan, every component is essential.
- 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto that creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth base and helps gently cook the garlic without burning.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star aromatics that give the dish its signature pungent, warm flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, smooth, and velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty depth that perfectly balances the cream.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the ingredients into harmony.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of vibrant color and a fresh, herbal note to finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package’s instructions. This step is important to get the pasta al dente—firm but tender enough to soak up the creamy sauce later. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside so it’s ready for a quick toss with the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until just shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. You want the garlic to become fragrant and lightly golden but be careful not to let it burn, as that would cause bitterness and overpower the delicate garlic flavor.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream directly into the skillet with the garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning. This creates the velvety base for your sauce—a rich canvas that soon transforms with the addition of Parmesan.
Step 4: Add Parmesan
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy mixture. Keep cooking the sauce over low heat until it thickens to a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta. The cheese not only adds flavor but also helps the sauce bind perfectly.
Step 5: Season
Now, season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This simple step is key to bringing out all the flavors and balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together gently. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated generously with the creamy garlic sauce—it’s this step that makes the dish utterly satisfying and cohesive.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of fresh color and bright flavor. Serve the pasta immediately while it’s warm and creamy, ready to delight your taste buds with every forkful.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice here, but don’t hesitate to get creative. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add wonderful layers visually and flavor-wise. A drizzle of olive oil on top can also elevate the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. The contrast of crunchy textures and fresh, acidic flavors balances the dish’s richness perfectly, making meal time harmonious and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little wow factor, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls and garnish each with unique toppings like toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Presenting the pasta with a side of grilled chicken or shrimp can also turn it into an elegant main course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so before reheating, you might want to add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it back up.
Freezing
Because of the cream sauce, freezing this pasta is not always recommended; however, if you must, freeze in small portions without the parsley garnish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Add a little bit of milk or cream as needed to restore the smooth, creamy texture that makes this dish so delectable.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, other shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle also work wonderfully and provide a fun variation in texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce fat content, though the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can I add protein to the dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta are excellent additions that complement the creamy garlic sauce and turn this into an even heartier meal.
What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is ideal for the best flavor and smooth melting, but pre-grated Parmesan will also work if that’s what you have on hand.
How can I make the garlic flavor less intense?
If you prefer a milder garlic taste, reduce the amount of garlic or lightly roast the cloves before mincing to bring out a sweeter, subtler aroma.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is a true kitchen gem—simple, quick, and spectacularly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. So grab those ingredients, embrace the irresistible aroma of garlic and cream, and treat yourself to a plate of pure comfort and joy tonight!
Print
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a quick and delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Featuring tender penne pasta tossed in a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce, enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it offers comforting flavors with minimal effort and in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors and prevent sticking.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat each piece in the rich garlic cream sauce evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the creamy garlic penne pasta immediately while warm.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoother sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce may be less rich.
- You can add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
