Name: Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; Water & salt (for boiling); 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup milk; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ cup reserved pasta water; Fresh parsley, chopped; Extra Parmesan cheese; A dash of black pepper

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is exactly what you need. It combines al dente penne pasta with a luxuriously smooth garlic-infused cream sauce, perfectly balanced with a hint of spice and brightened by fresh parsley. Every forkful melts with cheesy goodness and a subtle punch of flavor that makes this dish an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to creamy pasta delight.

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta lies in its simplicity with essential ingredients that come together harmoniously. Each one plays an important role in building the rich texture, savory taste, and inviting aroma that make this dish so unforgettable.

12 oz penne pasta: The perfect bite-sized pasta that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
Water & salt (for boiling): Proper seasoning of pasta water enhances the pasta’s flavor from within.
2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic evenly without burning.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavoring that infuses the dish with its signature aromatic punch.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety base for the sauce.
½ cup milk: Lightens the cream slightly for a smoother consistency.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides the salty, nutty flair that defines the sauce.
½ tsp salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that pairs well with garlic.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of spice, add these if you like a little zing.
½ tsp Italian seasoning: Brings an herbaceous note that complements the garlic beautifully.
¼ cup reserved pasta water: Used to adjust sauce thickness, helping it cling to every bite.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, green finish with a mild peppery flavor.
Extra Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling on top to boost cheesy goodness.
A dash of black pepper: Adds a final touch of spice just before serving.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial because the salt seasons the pasta from the inside out. Add your penne and let it cook until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, usually about 10 to 12 minutes. Before draining, be sure to save a quarter cup of the starchy pasta water – it’s a secret weapon for adjusting your sauce later so it’s silky and smooth.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This quick sauté releases the garlic’s natural oils and sweetness, which forms the flavorful backbone of the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir in the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step allows all those flavors to mingle and thicken the sauce, setting the stage for the cheese.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese

Gradually add the grated Parmesan to the simmering sauce, stirring continuously to avoid any clumps. The cheese melts into the sauce, creating the signature velvety texture of this Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta. If you notice the sauce feels too thick or sticky, slowly add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce coats the pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Now it’s time to unite sauce and pasta. Add the drained penne directly into the skillet and toss everything gently but thoroughly. Let the pasta cook in the sauce over low heat for another minute or two to soak up all those rich flavors and ensure every bite is generously coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. Add a little extra Parmesan and a dash of black pepper to make it visually irresistible and taste even better. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley makes the ideal garnish here, offering a lovely contrast both in color and flavor to the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese just before serving adds an irresistible salty edge, while a dash of freshly ground black pepper gives each bite a subtle kick. These simple touches make your dish look and taste even more amazing.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to balance out its richness. Consider a light arugula salad with lemon dressing or grilled asparagus for freshness. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the pasta in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or squash for an autumnal vibe. You can also layer it in a casserole dish topped with extra Parmesan and broil for a few minutes to create a golden, bubbly crust. Either way, the Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta will steal the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but a quick stir or a splash of milk before reheating can bring back its creamy texture.

Freezing

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove. Note that the texture might change slightly due to the cream, but it will still be tasty.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is over low heat on the stove. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through, and avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that silky sauce texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal because it holds the sauce well, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or reduce the amount of butter to lighten the sauce. Just keep in mind this will affect the richness and creaminess somewhat.

Can I add protein to Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta make excellent additions for a heartier meal. Just cook your protein separately and mix it in during the final step.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative with a similar salty, nutty flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese as freshly grated melts better into the sauce.

How spicy does this dish get with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the creaminess without overpowering. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is the kind of dish that feels like home, no matter the occasion. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors that always hit the spot. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. Happy cooking!

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta is a luscious, comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with Parmesan cheese and a hint of Italian seasoning. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home, garnished with fresh parsley for an added burst of freshness.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve a quarter cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
Sauté the Garlic: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to avoid clumping. If the sauce becomes too thick, slowly add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb fully.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the pasta with chopped fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy a creamy, flavorful meal.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency; it helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or additional milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian