Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a dreamy, indulgent dish that takes comfort food to the next level. This rich and creamy pasta combines perfectly cooked penne with a velvety sauce made from garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a deliciously savory and garlicky pasta that is both satisfying and easy to make. The garlic-infused sauce coats each piece of penne perfectly, offering a luxurious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner after a long day or you’re looking for a dish to impress at a dinner party, Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is versatile enough to suit any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly, leaving you with a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish. For those who enjoy a balance of comforting and bold flavors, this dish is an absolute must-try. It can be served on its own or paired with protein and vegetables for a more complete meal.

This guide walks you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful cooking experience, from preparing the garlic sauce to finishing off the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and parsley. Let’s dive into this creamy, garlicky delight!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Deliciously Creamy: The smooth and velvety sauce made with heavy cream and butter provides the perfect richness, while the garlic adds depth and warmth to every bite.
• Bold Garlic Flavor: If you love garlic, this recipe is perfect for you. The garlic in the sauce is cooked to perfection, bringing out its natural sweetness and balancing the richness of the cream.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples like butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan, this dish delivers a gourmet experience without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal that still feels indulgent.
• Versatile and Customizable: While this pasta is delicious on its own, it can easily be customized by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also adjust the level of garlic to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 3-4g

Ingredients

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the consistency of the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta.

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown. Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it as it cooks. You want it to soften and become fragrant, not bitter.

After the garlic is softened and aromatic, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes. The cream should thicken slightly as it cooks, creating a rich, creamy base for the sauce.

3. Add the Parmesan Cheese

Once the cream has thickened a bit, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir the sauce continuously as the cheese melts, ensuring that the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. The Parmesan will help thicken the sauce and add a deep, savory flavor.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help loosen up the sauce while also helping it adhere to the pasta.

Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you want a more intense garlic flavor, you can also add a teaspoon of garlic powder. For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

4. Toss the Pasta in the Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss the pasta gently in the sauce until it is evenly coated. The creamy sauce should cling to each piece of pasta, making every bite rich and flavorful. If necessary, you can add a bit more pasta water to achieve a silky consistency.

Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes, giving it time to absorb the flavors. This step also ensures that the pasta is heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is fully coated in the creamy garlic sauce, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for even more flavor and creaminess.

Serve the Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta immediately while it’s warm and fresh. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad, grilled chicken, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and smoothest sauce, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan tends to have anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so make sure to sauté it gently and for a short amount of time—just until fragrant. Overcooked garlic can turn bitter.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. The starchy water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta and makes the sauce creamier.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Add a little bit at a time to get the perfect texture.
• Customize the Dish: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the pasta. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables can all be great additions. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor.

Variations of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

• Chicken Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: For added protein, add grilled or sautéed chicken breast to the pasta. Slice the chicken and toss it with the pasta and sauce for a deliciously hearty meal.
• Shrimp Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: Add shrimp to the dish for a seafood twist. Sauté the shrimp in the same skillet as the garlic before adding the cream, and then toss with the pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Vegetarian Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version of the dish. These vegetables add texture and color while complementing the creamy sauce.
• Spicy Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pasta. The spiciness will pair wonderfully with the creamy and garlicky sauce.
• Baked Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta: Make this dish extra indulgent by transferring the pasta and sauce into a baking dish, topping with extra cheese, and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Storage and Shelf Life

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them for later. Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture of the sauce, as it may thicken when stored. You can reheat the pasta in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or warm it up on the stovetop over low heat.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Pair your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta with the following complementary side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect side to go with any creamy pasta, garlic bread offers a crispy, buttery contrast to the smooth pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots alongside the pasta for a healthy and flavorful side.
• Grilled Chicken: For a heartier meal, serve the pasta with grilled chicken breasts. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky pasta.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings together the best of garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. The smooth, rich sauce coats the penne perfectly, creating a dish that’s creamy, garlicky, and utterly delicious. Whether you enjoy it on its own or add your favorite protein or vegetables, this pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the creamy goodness of Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta today!