Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the ultimate go-to comfort food that wraps you in its rich, velvety embrace with every bite. Tender penne smothered in a luscious garlic cream sauce makes for a dish that’s both indulgent and ridiculously easy to whip up. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that wows at a dinner party, this pasta is always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that delights your taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with grilled chicken or vegetables for added variety.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of this creamy garlic pasta.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, it looks as good as it tastes, making it suitable for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before jumping into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the penne pasta evenly in boiling water.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly without losing any pieces.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the flour into the butter without lumps when making the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients together gently to maintain a smooth sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 11–13 minutes.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining in a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add cooked penne to the sauce along with reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate your creamy garlic penne pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Grilled Chicken
- Grilled chicken breast adds protein and a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Add Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring color and nutrition to your plate.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil not only brightens the dish but also adds a burst of freshness.
Serve with Garlic Bread
- A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, making every bite indulgent.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
- A light drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the pasta, enhancing its flavor profile.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
To ensure your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta turns out flawless every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers a stronger flavor than pre-minced options, enriching the sauce.
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Adjust creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with additional milk while maintaining great flavor.
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Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the penne retains its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
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Grate cheese fresh: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the overall taste compared to pre-grated varieties.
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Taste as you go: Adjust salt and seasoning gradually during cooking for optimal flavor balance without overpowering the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal:
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and freshness.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious green element that balances the richness of the pasta.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes roasted with herbs offer a satisfying texture alongside creamy pasta.
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Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil create a vibrant, flavorful side that contrasts nicely.
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Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic is a healthy option that pairs well with any pasta dish.
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Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an impressive accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking creamy garlic penne pasta can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for the best results.
- Flavor Missteps: Not using enough garlic can result in a bland dish. Always use fresh, minced garlic for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking penne pasta beyond al dente makes it mushy. Check the package instructions and taste it a minute or two before it’s done.
- Ignoring Cheese Quality: Using low-quality Parmesan can affect the cream sauce’s richness. Opt for freshly grated cheese for better texture and taste.
- Skipping the Salt: Not seasoning your water adequately can lead to underwhelming flavor. Salt your pasta water generously to enhance every bite.
- Rushing the Sauce: Adding cream too quickly can cause separation. Gradually stir in cream and let it simmer gently for a smooth sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Creamy garlic penne pasta will last for about 3-5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store portions.
- It’s best to consume frozen pasta within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding creamy garlic penne pasta.
What is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Creamy garlic penne pasta is a comforting dish made with tender penne noodles coated in a rich garlic cream sauce.
Can I customize my Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even proteins like chicken or shrimp for more variety.
Is Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta easy to make?
Yes! This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?
Pair this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal experience.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic penne pasta is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or dress it up for guests, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and feel free to add your favorite ingredients!
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. This easy-to-make dish features tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce, making it perfect for both quick weeknight meals and elegant dinner parties. With just a handful of ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this creamy pasta is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enhance the flavors with fresh herbs or pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Indulge in this luscious pasta recipe and make it your new go-to comfort food!
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (11–13 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked penne with the sauce, using reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
