If you are craving something rich, comforting, and downright irresistible, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. It’s a perfect showcase of tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, bursting with Parmesan goodness and subtle Italian herbs. Every bite feels like a warm hug, effortlessly blending simple pantry staples into a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but it’s ready in just about 25 minutes. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this recipe hits all the right notes with its silky texture and bold, savory flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture of this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe. From the nutty Parmesan cheese to the fragrant garlic and smooth cream, every component elevates the dish beautifully.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy garlic sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and provides the base for the flavorful roux.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the star here, imparting a bright, aromatic punch.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to get that silky, clingy texture.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and lightness, balancing the heaviness of the cream.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Intensifies the luxurious texture making this pasta truly indulgent.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that complements the garlic so well.
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): A hint of herbs to brighten and balance the richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, colorful touch just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta from within, which is key for flavor. Add your penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente — tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This simple step lays the foundation to make sure your pasta isn’t mushy and holds up perfectly to the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. As it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute or until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This quick step infuses the butter with that unmistakable garlic aroma that makes this dish so irresistible. Then sprinkle the flour evenly over the garlic butter and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This creates a smooth roux that will thicken your sauce to the perfect decadent consistency.
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring and cook the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. This transformation from liquid to creamy sauce is where the magic happens, turning the roux into a velvety base that will coat every piece of pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding savory depth and creaminess. Let it cook for another minute or two so all the flavors meld together into one harmonious, silky sauce. This stage is all about layering flavors and getting that balance just right.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Finally, add your cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure each pasta piece is coated in that garlicky cream sauce. The sauce clings lovingly to the penne, making every forkful a creamy delight. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh flavor finish. This is your moment to enjoy the fruits of your quick and delicious labor!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic garnish that adds a bright and fresh herbal note to the rich sauce. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or even a crack of fresh black pepper on top to elevate both flavor and presentation. A light drizzle of olive oil right before serving can add a subtle sheen and richness as well.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully, balancing the meal with light acidity. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also fantastic for sopping up every bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and make it easier to twirl pasta. For a lush presentation, top with sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken slices to make it a heartier meal. Even roasted cherry tomatoes add a burst of vibrant color and sweetness that contrasts delightfully with the garlic cream sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume within 2 to 3 days to enjoy the pasta at its freshest and prevent the sauce from separating.
Freezing
While freezing cream-based pasta dishes can sometimes alter texture, you can freeze the pasta if necessary. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. When reheated, the sauce might separate slightly but whisking gently during reheating can help bring it back together. For best results, consume frozen pasta within 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and recapture that silky texture. Microwave reheating also works if done in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because of its shape, other pasta types like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully as well since they all catch the creamy sauce nicely.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just be sure to use Parmesan cheese that is free of animal rennet if you want to keep it strictly vegetarian.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy with plant-based milk and cream alternatives, such as oat milk and coconut cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor, but the texture will be slightly different.
How can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms are wonderful protein additions that complement the garlic cream sauce and make the meal more filling without overpowering the flavors.
What’s the best way to avoid a grainy sauce?
Make sure to whisk constantly when adding flour to butter, and also when incorporating milk and cream, so no lumps form. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture, as pre-grated varieties sometimes create a slightly grainy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is one of those recipes that never fails to impress while feeling like a cozy, homemade hug from the kitchen. Its luscious garlic cream sauce paired with the perfectly cooked penne is an unbeatable combination that’s quick and easy enough for any weeknight yet special enough to serve guests. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this a try the next time you want comfort food that feels indulgent but is remarkably simple to put together. You’re going to love every creamy bite!
Print
Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy garlic penne pasta is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce made from butter, fresh garlic, milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, satisfying meal garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
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)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking constantly. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce cook for 1-2 more minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little more milk if it becomes too thick.
- Italian seasoning is optional but adds a nice herbal note to the sauce.
- To make it lighter, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
