If you are looking for a dish that is both comforting and indulgently flavorful, this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is here to steal your heart and your fork. With its luscious garlic-infused cream sauce clinging to perfectly cooked penne, every bite delivers a rich, velvety texture complemented by a punch of cheesy goodness and a hint of aromatic herbs. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special yet comes together quickly, making it perfect for both everyday dinners and impressive gatherings. Once you try it, this creamy garlic penne will quickly become your go-to for satisfying cravings without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that, when combined, create a beautifully balanced dish. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and that irresistibly creamy texture you crave.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth base for sautéing the garlic.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for making the roux that thickens the sauce perfectly.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides the creamy backdrop for the sauce’s silky texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously rich and velvety.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses savory depth and that signature cheesy tang.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors—adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice that cuts through the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Gives a lovely herby note that complements garlic beautifully.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Brings a fresh pop of color and brightness at the end.
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. Add your penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. This ensures the pasta will have a pleasant bite and not become mushy when combined with the sauce. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to get lovingly coated in that creamy garlic goodness.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until you smell that irresistible fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let it brown or burn—garlic sings best when gently cooked. Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and whisk it together continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates a smooth roux, which will thicken your sauce and give it that silky texture.
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking this mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency that will cling to your pasta beautifully. This gradual process ensures a velvety sauce without any graininess, turning simple dairy into a luxurious blanket of flavor.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you are using it. Keep cooking the sauce for another 1 to 2 minutes so the cheese melts completely and all the flavors meld together. This is the magic moment where your sauce goes from good to unforgettable, boasting a rich umami depth and just the right herbal touch.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta directly into your skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss everything together to coat each piece of pasta evenly. The sauce should coat the penne so thoroughly that each forkful tastes indulgently creamy. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely burst of color and freshness before serving. Your Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is ready to wow!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or even a few extra shavings of Parmesan can elevate the dish’s presentation and taste. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes offers a surprising little kick for those who like a bit of heat. These simple garnishes make the dish feel more vibrant and inviting at the table.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, bright sides that balance its richness. A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus offers a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect to soak up every bit of that divine sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the creamy garlic penne in a rustic bowl with extra Parmesan artfully scattered on top and a sprig of fresh herbs. Alternatively, you can bake the pasta briefly with a sprinkling of mozzarella for a golden, bubbly crust. These presentation twists turn a simple dish into something memorable and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover creamy garlic penne pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, but don’t worry—it loosens right back up when you reheat it.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta sauces can sometimes affect texture, this particular recipe freezes fairly well if you plan to enjoy it later. Store the pasta with sauce in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce feels too thick. This restores the creamy consistency and keeps the flavors fresh, as though you just made it.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne holds the sauce nicely, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to keep the pasta al dente.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, if you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk alone, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For dairy-free alternatives, coconut cream works but will change the flavor profile.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon all make fantastic additions. Simply cook them separately and toss in with the pasta at the end for an easy upgrade to a full meal.
How do I make this dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, unsweetened plant milk like oat or almond, and dairy-free Parmesan substitutes. The texture may differ slightly, but you’ll still get that lovely garlic-infused creaminess.
What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from separating?
The key is to whisk constantly when adding the milk and cream, and keep the heat moderate. Avoid boiling the sauce too hard, as excessive heat can cause the cream to split. Stir gently and patiently for the smoothest sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl and perfect for any pasta lover’s repertoire. Its simple ingredients come together to create something rich, flavorful, and elegantly creamy without demanding hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s made its way onto my list of all-time favorite recipes. Just one bite, and I promise you’ll be hooked too.
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy garlic penne pasta recipe featuring a velvety homemade garlic cream sauce, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning for a comforting and indulgent meal ready in just 25 minutes.
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: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and butter, and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour the whole milk and heavy cream into the roux while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Continue cooking the sauce for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic cream sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adjust the garlic quantity according to your taste preference.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for melting and flavor.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its creamiest texture.
