Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This creamy garlic penne pasta is the comfort dish I reach for on busy weeknights or when guests come over and I want to make something special without much fuss. With a lusciously silky Parmesan sauce and the gentle kick from garlic, every bite tastes indulgent while still being easy enough for any cook to master.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I needed a reliable comfort meal after a hectic week and now it is my go to reward whenever I need soothing food fast.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: because the tube shape holds the sauce in every bite use bronze cut if you want even more texture
• Butter: this creates a rich base for sautéing and adds depth to the creaminess always go for unsalted and fresh
• Fresh garlic: the heart of the flavor choose firm dry cloves for the brightest taste
• Heavy cream: delivers that classic restaurant sauce feel look for cream with at least thirty six percent fat
• Milk: helps to balance out the richness without watering down the sauce whole milk works best
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: essential for flavor and texture never use pre shredded for this dish
• Salt: enhances all the other flavors use kosher or sea salt for best results
• Black pepper: brings a gentle warmth always use freshly cracked for the best aroma
• Red pepper flakes: this is optional but adds a subtle kick use with a light touch
• Italian seasoning: a blend of oregano basil and thyme it rounds out the overall flavor choose a mix without added salt
• Reserved pasta water: key to bringing the sauce together and making it glossy and smooth use water right before draining for maximum starch
• Fresh parsley: brings freshness and color select bright flat leaf bunches
• Extra Parmesan and a dash of black pepper: both boost flavor and give a pretty finish use the best Parmesan you can find

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Place a large pot of salted water on the stove and bring to a rolling boil This step is crucial for seasoning the pasta from the inside out

Cook the Penne:

Add the pasta and stir once to prevent sticking Let it cook uncovered for about ten to twelve minutes taste at the ten minute mark for an al dente bite Reserve a quarter cup of the cooking water just before draining the pasta

Sauté the Garlic:

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add butter Let the butter melt completely and then add the minced garlic Stir constantly for about thirty seconds just until the garlic releases its aroma but do not let it brown

Build the Creamy Sauce:

Turn the heat to medium low and pour in the heavy cream and milk Add salt black pepper red pepper flakes if using and Italian seasoning Stir well and let the mixture bubble gently for two to three minutes Do not allow it to boil rapidly

Incorporate the Parmesan:

Sprinkle in small amounts of freshly grated Parmesan cheese stirring constantly This helps it melt smoothly without lumps If the sauce thickens too fast drizzle in a few spoons of reserved pasta water to loosen it

Combine Pasta with Sauce:

Add the hot drained penne right into the skillet Toss continuously for one to two minutes so the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce and everything is evenly coated

Finish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat sprinkle with lots of fresh parsley extra Parmesan and a dash of black pepper Serve while piping hot for the best texture and flavor

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You Must Know

• High in protein and calcium thanks to all that Parmesan and cream
• This dish is quick enough for weeknights but feels elegant enough for entertaining
• You can freeze leftovers or store them in the fridge for easy reheats

Parmesan cheese is my favorite part of this meal Its nutty flavor and creamy melt remind me of big family Sunday dinners when a wedge of Parmesan would be passed all around the table Everyone would take turns grating just a little extra on their plates and the ritual always made dinner feel special

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool fully before transferring to airtight containers in the fridge Use within three days for best taste When reheating splash in a tablespoon of milk or cream to bring back creaminess and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave Stir well to revive the silky sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any short pasta in place of penne try rigatoni or fusilli If you need a dairy free version try oat milk based creamers and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan Spinach or peas make excellent add ins for more color and nutrition

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is filling on its own but shines alongside simply roasted vegetables a lemony arugula salad or garlic bread For extra protein top with grilled chicken or shrimp When hosting I serve this in shallow bowls with a big sprinkle of herbs for a restaurant style touch

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Cultural Roots

Creamy garlic pasta draws on classic Italian techniques for blending dairy and pasta water into sauces While this version leans more decadent than traditional Italian fare the ritual of tossing the pasta directly in rich sauce follows the spirit of Italian home cooking

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the cream over medium-low heat and gradually add Parmesan, stirring gently to prevent clumps or curdling.

→ Can I use a different cheese besides Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano offer similar salty richness and melt well into the sauce, complementing the flavors.

→ How can I add protein to this dish?

Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra substance and flavor, added just before serving.

→ Is there a way to lighten the sauce?

Substitute half-and-half or use more milk in place of heavy cream. The sauce will be thinner but still flavorful.

→ What other herbs pair well with this pasta?

Fresh basil, thyme, or chives offer vibrant notes and work well as a garnish or mixed into the sauce.