Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of creamy garlic penne pasta. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in comfort with each bite, featuring tender noodles coated in a luscious, garlicky sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this creamy garlic penne recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.

this Recipe

When you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again. It’s perfect for pairing with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Plus, it’s a great dish to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy sauce with bold garlic flavor.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Quick to prepare – ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfectly tender penne pasta that holds sauce well.
• Versatile dish that can be customized with veggies or protein.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a velvety creamy garlic penne pasta that will satisfy your cravings.

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat every piece in the creamy garlic sauce. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and smoother sauce.
• Don’t skip the heavy cream—it adds extra silkiness to the sauce.
• Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Toast the garlic gently to avoid bitterness but amplify its aroma.
• Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover creamy garlic penne pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

This pasta also freezes well—place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stove for best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! While penne works great because it holds the sauce nicely, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle for a similar texture and flavor experience.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for olive oil, use a plant-based milk like unsweetened almond or oat milk, and choose a vegan Parmesan alternative to keep the creamy texture without dairy.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few extra minutes after adding the milk and cream. You can also add a little more flour when making the roux, but be sure to cook it well to avoid a floury taste.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can cook the pasta and sauce separately ahead of time and combine them just before serving. However, for the best texture and taste, it’s ideal to toss the pasta in the sauce right before eating.